New Found Freedom

This past Sunday my Dad was released from his calling as LDS Bishop of the ward I grew up in. He has been serving in this capacity since Cody and I got married 7 years ago. He is an amazing man, and I just need to brag about him a little bit. I am so thankful for the opportunity that he had to grow to love the people of his ward as he served them as the 'Father' of the ward. They had the lucky opportunity to have a little taste of what I grew up with and continue to have bless my life. He is ever patient, and even if you push him past the line his patience has drawn he is there to correct with love and teach you how to become better. He loves everyone, he is kind and understanding. I know there have been situations that were hard for him to deal with and times when his soul was heavy with the sins of others but he never uttered a complaining word against his calling. He was a master of coming home after church and leaving things that were trying him locked away behind him. He was dad/grandpa as soon as that suit came off. I admired that about him so much because I can imagine that many times that took great effort. He had a great love for the youth of his ward, he loved them dearly and supported them in church and local activities they were involved in. He attended concerts, plays, visited them and traveled to their yearly camping trips bearing gifts of pizza and ice cream. He even brought one young man to live in our home during a rough period in his young life. It was sweet to hear his last remarks to the ward as he said good-bye. To see him tearfully share the sweet secret sign he had to say 'Hello, I see you." to my 4 year old cousin Hadlee. I know he loved the people he served, and I know he loves our Savior. I am thankful for his service and I am also thankful for the chance he will have to take a break, at least for a little while. I love you Daddy!