The following is the text from an incredible letter my father gave me recently. I can not express the depth of gratitude and love to have such a letter written to me. I would not have shared this letter except that he told that "I could put it on my blog". So without further ado....
Dear Son & Family:It seems that not a day goes by without someone asking, “What do you think about them leaving for Africa?” or by saying “I know that you’re going to miss them”.
To all those who have asked or want to ask: Yes, as a father, all the normal feelings are there. I will miss my son and his family. But as a man of God, I understand the great commission and encourage them with all my love. I am very proud of them, but I will not be boastful that I’m the father of a missionary. I love my Lord, and gladly accept this mission He has for Tim and his family (and mine as well). Yes, there will be many tears shed this fall when they leave, but Cheryl and I are already making plans to visit. I will be the “go for” while Cheryl will have the opportunity to work with her son in a professional setting. What more could parents have to share with their children. What everyone needs to understand is the wonderful relationship that Cheryl and I have with both our sons and their families.
(If I may, Dr. Hutchison) Timmy you are well on your way with plans and support for your mission in Kenya. I’ve watched as you’ve gone through various stages, with all the ups and downs. I’ve seen the full range of emotions from total excitement, to total exhaustion. Know, that as your father, it’s hard at times to stand on the sideline and watch without being able to come to your aid. However, know also, what a pleasure it is to chauffer you all the miles, ride along from meeting to meeting, keep the kids, or worship with you as I have. I totally admire how you and Marti have put all this together. Keep up the good work.
Marti, what a wonderful wife, companion and friend you are to my son. Believe me, I know what it’s like trying to keep him under control. You are also a very special person to me. I’m not sure where or when, but, somewhere along these last fifteen years you lost the title of daughter-in-law. To me, you are more than a daughter-in-law. You are a friend, a confidante or even (if Hal and Ruthann will permit), one of my own children. Uncommon to society today, we can and have shared our thoughts, emotions and frustrations, together as a family. I just want you to know that I also thank you for all the extra effort you have invested in this adventure. For it’s you, that does all the packing and unpacking, laundry, housekeeping, and oh yes, taking care of the children.
Sarah, Ben, and Sam; Paw Paw loves you very much. I know that it is hard for you to understand all that is happening. But just think of all the wonderful things you are going to be able to do to help other kids. You have a very special mission that God want you to do. Remember the story of how Jesus took the little child on his knee and told everyone how special children are. You can go to Kenya and help some of God’s children that Nana and Paw Paw can’t help from here. Please be good disciples and help them for us.
Tim and Marti, I understand that there was some apprehension on your part to tell us about your decision. With all my love, shame on you!
I have known for a very long time that this time was coming. I love you both. It’s ok. I will miss some of the important events in the lives of my grandchildren, it’s ok, love you. You will not be able to be at my side in time of sickness, it’s ok, I love. There will be holidays, birthdays, anniversaries and other special events that I will miss you. It’s ok, I love you. There will be deaths in our family and you will not be able to attend, it’s ok, we love you.
All of these events are only human experiences, they will pass. But the love we have in our hearts is Gods gift placed there to keep, sustain, and hold us together. It will never pass, it will only grow stronger.
Go in peace, I understand, I encourage and I love you very much.Love,
Daddy
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