Today is May 5.  Some people call it Cinco De Mayo and will celebrate Mexico’s victory over France.  For me, this day will always remain my dad’s birthday.   Today he would have been 86 years old.  Instead, time has no bearing on him as he lives in the presence of God.

For me, this is not just another day. 

This is a day I am sad that I no longer have my father in my life. But it is more than that too.

This is the day I am thankful for the father God gave me.  A man who loved Jesus and his family.

This is the day I remember our many adventures together in the outdoors. 

This is the day I am thankful for the friendship I had with my father that many people never get to experience. 

This is the day I am thankful that my children had a grandfather who loved them, and I will cherish every memory of my boys and him together.

This is the day I am thankful that I still have my mom.  I treasure every day I get to spend with her. 

This is the day I am thankful for my wife, who has stood beside me through dad’s strokes and his funeral.  She loved me through the down times and remains by my side. 

This is the day I am thankful for the hope I have in Jesus Christ.  He conquered death and provided eternal life for all those who follow him. 

This is a day where I have a choice.  I can be full of anger or grief or a whole host of emotions. Today I choose to be overwhelmingly thankful for the time I had with dad.  To you, it might seem like just another day on the calendar.  To me, it is a day to look back, remember, and am filled with thanksgiving to God.