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Dad's steps are
slower, but still mark a steady path
I’ve been noticing that Paul Wheater, long-time Father of the
Editor, has been getting old. I watched him crossing the street this morning, and I
noticed that he walks carefully, like someone who has to be mindful of the danger of
falling.
A few short years
ago, this same fellow demonstrated his bicycle trick riding abilities for me. At the same
time, he added a quick pratfall primer, looking up from the pavement. “And that’s
what happens if you lean too far back,” he announced. He has always been eager to
teach, even if it causes bruising, and even if I already knew everything.
Despite the signs of
aging, I am encouraged. He has been married to the same wife for 47 years. He has survived
the deaths of his own parents, the teen years of five sons, the death of one of those
sons, and all the other challenges of life. At the same time, he has continued to serve
his God, his family and his community with love and dedication.
He walks slower, but I respect those steps, and I want to keep following
them. |
