Today my dad (aka “Dude”) would have turned 96. He has been gone for 16 years, and rarely a day goes by that I don’t think about him. I still see my dad often. Sometimes my youngest son, Caeleb, makes a face or moves a certain way, just like my dad. He even wiggles his ears like daddy. 😊
My dad advocated for those who could not speak up for themselves. It pained him to see people suffer in poverty. And my Julian has that same Campos spirit. Julian gets riled up when injustice is evident, just like I did when I was younger. I still get upset when people are not treated well, but I can keep my anger in check. Julian also exhibits mannerisms like his “Grampys.”
I don’t think these moments when I see and feel my dad through my sons are random or coincidental. It is the Holy Spirit at work. The Spirit can surprise people. Sometimes it means we find ways to push through difficult circumstances or even find time to be present for others when they are in need.
I give thanks today for how my dad is present in my sons…and me.
Happy birthday, Dude. I love you.
Today I am Thankful for:
- my dad
- Anointing oil
- Being present with others in grief
- God’s calling on my life
- Starbucks
