6-16-24 Father’s Day Update

Father’s Day update:

Happy Fathers Day! First, I want to thank my Father, God, whom created me, us, and all that we see. Second, I am thankful for a loving father, William Abner McKnight, whom loved me well. He was kind, loyal, loving, and generous to all his 5 kids. And last, I am very thankful that God chose to give me 2 beautiful kids to raise, Walker & Laura.

I will readily admit I am not the sharpest tool in the tool shed, yet the greatest thing I have is a heart that loves beyond my own understanding. Whether looking up towards those who loved me or down the river at those I love, this heart knows what’s most important in life. Loving unconditionally with every fiber of your being, stretching beyond our egos to care for those around us with uncommon grace.

I like to think that the Grace that God freely gives us, when we seek him with all our heart, is built brick by brick like an interior Lego set. We accumulate bricks by walking close to Jesus and sharing in the love he teaches us to give and receive. Adding ‘grace bricks’ as we practice the beatitudes with the people swimming down the river with us.

I think of Legos because our house is filled with the latest, greatest Lego designs available today because it is a hobby of Walkers to build them. He has enjoyed many  meditative hours piecing together many flowers, a roller coaster, a bonsai tree, a Scrambler ride, and a painting by Gauguin.

For years now, out of necessity, we spend the majority of our time close to home. Especially in the Summer because the heat limits Walkers ability to breathe comfortably when outdoors. While Walkers lungs have been fairly stable, his stomach has been the rub causing for much distress and many hospital visits.

Of course, being Walkers Dad has been very challenging but can’t compare to the hardship he has had to endure. I take great pride in the Father’s Day card Walker wrote to me today - “Thank you for being the strongest, most dependable, and kind man/Dad out there. I love you tons”. And I love the new fishing hat he bought me. 

A wonderful Father’s Day was topped off by a FaceTime call from beautiful Laura Marley while soaking in the hot tub. Then dinner with my best friend and wife of 23 years, Candy, whom I love so very much.

Thanks be to God for giving me such a wonderful family.