June 12, 2013
Some of the best letters shared within a family never need any postage. These are the ones slipped into a lunch box or pasted onto a mirror or the dashboard of the car. A child’s drawing or a simple “I love you” are “worth their weight in the gold of family harmony.”
Consider writing something down for Father’s Day. The occasion provides an opportunity to say what you might feel awkward expressing at another time. Grab this chance-you’ll be glad you did. Whether you buy or make a card add a message to bring up a happy moment shared between you and your Dad. Offer a compliment to acknowledge some way he’s been supportive and special to you.
For starters, try finishing these sentences: “I’ll never forget when you…”, “You were so funny when you…”, “Thanks for the time you…”, “One of my best memories is…”,”I’ve never forgotten what you once told me…” When expressing your feelings, keep them simple: “I love you”, “I say” thank you” for you every day”, “Thank you for all you’ve done for me and given me and been to me”, “I’ve looked up to you all my life.”
Remember, on Father’s Day you can also send special notes to “father figures” who have done “dad-ly” things for you- a grandparent,older friend, teacher, or neighbor.
Once again, have fun- think about your Dad’s interests when choosing a card…include a photo, a cartoon, or a ticket stub from a good time together. Celebrate your Dad with words on paper, he’ll be glad you did!
____________________________________________________________________________________________________ Reference: Rosalie Maggio. How to Say It. Prentice Hall Press, New York. 2009