Daddo

Daddo,

It's only now, in adulthood, that I've begun to fully appreciate everything you taught us, everything you've done for us, and how incredible a father you are and have been. I find myself reminded almost daily of a time you told us a story of when, at the Salt Lake Temple, one of the general authorities gave a talk and stressed the point, "You cannot stand on borrowed light." While all of us have made choices and taken paths different from the ones you would have chosen for us, it's because we have not been content to simply rely on what others tell us. We all have a desire, a need, to find out for ourselves, to discover, learn, and explore.

Sitting in one place makes us restless, because you showed there is a big and amazing world to which we are connected and in which we can make a difference. Aside from the stories you would tell us (Often. And repeatedly.) about your experiences travelling around the world, you instilled in us an insatiable curiosity about it. I remember watching the news and every time a story would come on, you would take us to the big maps hanging in the hallway and show us where it was taking place, and tell us all about it. Not only has it been wicked helpful on geography exams, but it's helped us to more fully appreciate every opportunity we have to visit a new place.

Listening to someone say something - anything - false or incorrect frustrates us because you taught us that there is such a thing as truth, and no more important thing than honesty. It's made each of us a pain in the butt to every sunday school teacher, college professor, boyfriend, and friend that we've had. More than that, it's made us people who aren't satisfied with half-truths or accepted wisdom. We are always striving to know more, and to improve the knowledge we have. It's difficult, but we do it because you showed us it's worth it.

You're an amazing Dad, Dad, and I'm immensely thankful to have had you and mom as my parents and teachers. You've accomplished a lot in 60 years. I can't wait to see what the next 60 hold. (Ha!) I love you, Daddo.

John