Erin’s Letter to Dad for Father’s Day

Sunday is Father's Day. I had an amazing Father. It is too cliche' to say I had the best Dad in the world, but for me it really is so true.

Let me tell you about my Pops. He was born on October 22, 1925, but was adopted at birth and he grew up in Gulfport, MS. His mother died when he was 7. So he was the only child living with his single Dad, Silas Bea McCarty. Silas was the town barber in Gulfport and he was ran a shop that was the hub of the town. I never met my grandfather. He passed before I was born, but I can only imagine how gregarious and fun he must have been. Because that was my Dad. He never met a stranger. And he listened to you. He never tried to one-up anyone. He really cared about your story.

And he loved with such passion. I think each of my brothers (i have 5 brothers) would be able to tell you what a special bond they had with Dad. He made each of us feel special.

He's a genuine hero for me because he was one of the brave men who put on that Marine uniform and literally risked his life to protect our country. My Dad fought in Okinawa during WWII and was awarded a Bronze Star for his bravery.

But even better than that, he loved my Mom with such devotion. He brought her coffee in bed every morning and would gently tap the spoon on the cup as he approached the bed to let her know it was time to get going (she was not a morning person). That's just one example of his devotion. He also showed me that love and devotion all of my life. He was and will always be a special angel to me.

It's a bittersweet day for me and for so many people who have lost their Dads. I even know people who will struggle this weekend because they are estranged from their Father. I often get in trouble for telling people to get beyond whatever differences you may have and try to reconnect. But therapists tell me sometime a person is too toxic to have in your life. I'm also reminded to think about the people who suffered abuse or neglect at the hands of their father. I really can not even imagine or wrap my brain around that.

If you still have your Father around, please let him know how special he is to you. And tell him thanks for all the sacrifices he has made.