For kissing my hurts when I was three

For the times I needed some direction and you showed me a sign.

For whenever I was bad and you kept me in line

For being my companion, on all those long trips.

For all the advice you’ve given me and all the little tips.

For all the times you make me laugh and when you make me smile.

For the times when I couldn’t go on, you went an extra mile.

For first taking me on the Matterhorn.

For being there when Grandpa died and I needed to mourn.

For making me your tuna sandwiches and incredible cinnamon toast

For singing to me in the morning when I needed it the most.

For showing to me the love of God and the truth of the divine

For rehearsing with me for my school plays until I finally knew my lines.

For dropping me off and picking me up, from sports and from school.

For showing me how to act and behave, when I didn’t know the rules.

For the times you encouraged me when I did or didn’t succeed

For the time I first got glasses and you were a friend in need.

For all the times I lost a job and didn’t know what to do,

For all the times you’ve comforted me with a simple “I love you”

There are many more reasons that could be expressed in many other ways

And I know I will be doing that for the rest of my days.

Through the simple love and courage that is shown through the soul, your light shines brightly to inspire others on the road.

As a father and captain, you gave all to protect those in your care, never compromising safety no matter when or where. You have always kept your values, instilling the same in us. You’ve never faltered in your love even when it was tough. Your love will carry on through all that you inspire and never be quenched like an all-consuming fire.

You’ve come a long way from that small town that you knew, never giving up your dreams until one day you flew.