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Previous Challenge Entry (Level 1 – Beginner)
Topic: Father (as in paternal parent, not God) (04/10/08)
His Choices




Dear Daughter,

This letter is to answer some of your questions. When you were just a year old
I took your mother and you three kids to Madison, Wisconsin so that I could
get my Master’s degree in history at the university there. I planned to become
a Professor of History. But after only a year I realized your mother probably
wouldn’t be happy as a professor’s wife. So we came back east where I
eventually joined my father’s company.


Twelve years later I found myself alone with you five children, after losing
your mother, and not quite knowing how to proceed. So I was thankful to
fall in love with your step-mother, and marry her a year later. I think you
got lost with the addition of her four kids. I know it was tough for you and
I know you and your step-mother didn’t get along. Think of her kids: they
had to choose between their parents. And I apologize for neglecting you.


We as a family have had our share of losses but we’ve come through basically
intact. We’ve all had to learn what works and what doesn’t. I know I’ve
made mistakes. We just need to keep plugging along and do our best. That’s all
anyone can ask. Take pains. A good sense of humor makes a difference. I’m
glad you’ve made a life for yourself. Your grandfather said of you, “She’ll
always land on her feet.”


Yes, I’ve read those tracts you gave me. As you know, we (your step-mother
and I) have read Paul’s letters in the Bible. Good literature. I guess there might
be something bigger out there. I do believe that helping people and being a
good person is important. It’s better to be a giver than a taker. I’m glad you
and your step-mother get along now. She and I have had a happy thirty-nine
years together. I’m very thankful for having her in my life.


Lots of Love,
Your Dad
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This article has been read 1527 times
Member Comments
Member
Date
Jan Ackerson
04/18/08
Interesting approach! The best part for me is in the last paragraph, where he says "I guess there might be something bigger out there." I like that you didn't just give it the pat ending, but that you left your readers with a bit of hope.
Sheri Gordon
04/19/08
I like this format--very easy to read. This makes me want to know more of the story. Nice job with the topic.
Joanne Sher 
04/19/08
I was intrigued, and so want more information on ALL the characters in this story. Thanks for piquing my curiosity, and for sharing this piece!
Yvonne Blake 
04/24/08
good job...I know it was hard for you to write this
Mark Frank
07/16/08
Great piece...as a single father I understand...Thanks for your comments.
Linda Settles
03/16/09
This article is obviously a "write from the heart." You have made a lot of sacrifices to do what you thought was best for your family. Our children may not always understand our actions, but when they know we love them, they usually come to grips with their disappointments because they love us, too, and want to be close to us as much as we want it. God bless you as you continue being the father and husband He designed you to be.

Linda Settles
www.RedeemingOurTreasures.com
Cynthia Buhain-Baello
05/09/09
You wrote honestly and openly it touches the reader, as we all go through these phases in life, only with different situations and degrees. The title is very appropriate, nothing too heavy or imposing.
beatrice ofwona
04/29/10
Paternal or not, this father exemplifies our heavenly Father's love for us...gentle, all consuming and caring. With all that you had on your plate, you still came out a good dad.