He loved me first

There is something extraordinarily significant about the first guy in a girls life. The guy who loved her before she even knew what love was. Whether this important male figure is present or absent, it is always a relationship which affects us greatly. It shapes our perspectives, ideals, expectations, and responses. God planned this most important relationship with careful precision. A daddy and a daughter.

He will guide her He will teach her He will protect her And one day he will give her away But he loved her first - and will love her forever

Daddy, Sometimes I just assume that you know this, but today I want to articulate it. You have been so important in my life. Ours has not been a particularly emotionally close relationship, but my appreciation for you is wholehearted. I think the only real emotionally close relationship you have is with mom and I'm so glad you have her. I rejoice and celebrate with you in the 37 years you have had together! (Don't forget dad - next Wednesday is your anniversary. Flowers might be nice...) We haven't always seen eye to eye, and I know I have disappointed you at times. Some times my decisions are not those you would make, but I have been granted a glimpse of a respect from you that steps back and allows me to be me anyway. At times I find myself in a similar position - not understanding or endorsing a decision you have made, but I too have learned to esteem you respectfully regardless of the situation. We know that whether we are right or wrong God is working for something far greater in each of us - and he will be faithful to complete it. This has become the quiet modification of our relationship. We now relate to each other as adults. And yet inside there is still a little girl who continues to look at the first man in her life - sometimes with shining satisfaction in her eyes as if to say "do you see what God is doing in my life? Do you see what I'm becoming? Are you pleased?" At times those eyes can barely look up - they are faltering and questioning, "Daddy, am I okay? Am I worthy of your love?" Whatever your response may be, you are backed by a Father who knows all, reveals truth, and loves perfectly.

Sometimes my David reminds me of you and I smile. Cause I've heard that a girl will inevitably look for qualities in a husband that she has admired in her daddy. I remember how supportive you were of my relationship with Dave from the very beginning and I am so grateful. Becuase you knew. You saw the protective love from him and you were able to let me go with the satisfaction and confidence that I would be well taken care of.

When I was little you were the protector and provider. I was in awe of your strength and a bit fearful of your authority. Sometimes our stubbornness clashed, resulting in frustration. We are so much alike... sometimes maybe too much :) The baby, the youngest of your five, and yet the one who so often dared to talk back to you. I think 'brassy' was the word we used... remember? :)

I love seeing you with my kids. It warms my heart to watch my boys interact with the man who had so much to do with who I am. I only wish I could see that more often. They love you.

Happy Birthday. Thank you for showing Christ to me. I love you

~Bitty One