Monday, April 6, 2009

Different Kind of Dad

From the moment we knew Little Brady was going to be a part of our world, he has changed it forever. But no one has changed more so than my daddy. I remember so clearly the day I told him I was pregnant. And from that day forward he proceeded to stop drinking. He told me that another grandchild would not grow up to know that he was a drunk. I'm not exactly sure why things happen the way they do, but I now understand more clearly than ever that God sees our bigger picture.
space
If you would have told me three years ago that the man I always knew as my dad would end up being the man I now know as my "daddy", I would have thought I was only dreaming. But I can say without a doubt that it is never too late to change. And it doesn't matter that I am 42 years old. A girl always needs a daddy. I've never been an alcoholic, and can only imagine how hard it is to quit something that has been a part of your life more of your years than not. But, I know it can be done. Dad and I both say a prayer every day that the battle becomes less and less a part of his life, and the strength becomes greater and greater.
space
Daddy has been here all weekend. He came to see the "little man" that he says caused him to be "a real man". I just can't seem to find the words tonight that can express the precious thoughts I have when I think of how far our journey has taken us. My daddy has become my friend. He is the grandpa my children always needed, and a man I always knew he was. I am proud to be a part of his life, and I am so thankful that Brady is a part of his. When the day is done, all we have left when we close our eyes are pictures and memories. AND I can say that I have both. My daddy took Brady and I on a date to Chuck E Cheese. WE spent 2 hours laughing and watching Brady's first experience with a room full of wonder. My eyes filled with tears when we left as Daddy hugged me and said " that was more fun than any bar I've ever been in." May we all realize that it's never too late to change. Tomorrow could very well be the first day of the rest of your life.

4 comments:

Darla said...

that's amazing. i'm so happy for him to be free. i know it is a very hard struggle. i can't imagine, but at least he knows God alone can bring him through it.

Angie Abbott said...

I know the best years are yet to come. What a blessing Brady as been in so many ways to you and your family, God works wonders. Love to toots and you. Angie

julie king said...

what a nice tribute to a man who is taking brave steps every day to be a better man! and kudos to you for helping him to do it. i'm sure you and brady are a big part of his motivation to change! bless you both.

Veronica said...

That has really moved me. Thank you for sharing that story.