Porch Swing Observations: Thoughts From The Desk Of A Geek

Father’s Day: Understanding The Impact Of Fathers 2025

That’s My Job

Fathers often play a pivotal role in shaping our identities, values, and understanding of the world. They teach us important life skills, share wisdom, and provide emotional support. The bonds we form with them can be profound, influencing our relationships and how we view ourselves. When a father passes away, the void left behind can be significant. Grieving this loss is a natural and necessary process. It’s essential to acknowledge and embrace the feelings that arise, whether they be sadness, anger, or nostalgia. Each emotion reflects the love that was shared and the impact that father had on our lives.

*Celebrating Their Legacy

1. **Cherishing Memories:** Reflecting on specific memories can be a powerful way to honor our fathers. Think about moments that made you laugh, lessons learned during difficult times, or traditions that brought your family together. These memories can serve as a source of comfort and strength.

2. **Sharing Stories:** Sharing stories about your father with family and friends can keep his memory alive. It can also provide a sense of community and support, as others may relate their own experiences with loss.

3. **Creating a Tribute:** Consider creating a tribute in your father's honor. This could be a photo album, a scrapbook, or even a video compilation of memories. You might also plant a tree or a flower in his memory, symbolizing growth and the continuation of life.

4. **Acts of Kindness:** Engaging in acts of kindness or volunteering in his honor can be a meaningful way to celebrate his life. Whether it’s helping at a local charity, supporting a cause he cared about, or simply performing random acts of kindness, these actions can reflect the values he instilled in you.

*Finding Peace Through Faith

Faith can be an essential source of comfort during times of loss. Many find solace in prayer, scripture, or community worship. Here are a few biblical passages that may provide encouragement:

**Psalm 34:18 (NIV):** "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." This verse reassures us that God is with us in our grief.

**2 Corinthians 1:3-4 (NIV):** "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles." This reminds us that God provides comfort and support in our times of sorrow.

**John 14:1-3 (NIV):** "Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you?" This passage offers hope of eternal life and reunion.

Conclusion

Father's Day can be a reminder of both the joy of having had a father and the sorrow of his absence. By reflecting on the love, lessons, and memories shared, we can honor their legacy and find ways to keep their spirit alive within us. Embracing our grief while celebrating their life allows us to navigate this day with both reverence and remembrance. Ultimately, every tear shed is a testament to the love shared, and every act of remembrance is a way to say, "Thank you" for the role they played in our lives.

Lonnie

Porch Swing Observations

Electrified

On the evening of July 25, 1965, Bob Dylan took the stage at Newport Folk Festival backed by an electric band and roared into a blistering version of "Maggie's Farm," followed by his new rock hit, "Like a Rolling Stone." The audience of committed folkies and political activists who had hailed him as their acoustic prophet. Dylan’s  new sound was reacted with a mix of shock, booing, and cheers. It was the shot heard round the world Dylan’s declaration of musical independence, the end of the folk revival, and the birth of rock as the voice of a generation and one of the defining moments in twentieth century music.

In a world that often pressures us to conform to societal norms and values, the call to be set apart can feel daunting. As believers in Christ, we are called to embrace our identity as children of God, which means adopting a different mindset and lifestyle than what is often celebrated around us.

The Apostle Paul encourages us in Romans 12:2 to resist the patterns of this world. This doesn’t merely mean avoiding sinful actions; it extends to our thoughts, choices, and the influences we allow in our lives. The process of renewal begins in our minds, shaping our perspectives and guiding our actions. By focusing on God’s Word, we allow His truth to transform us, enabling us to discern His will for our lives.

Setting ourselves apart is an act of obedience and faith. It reflects our commitment to God and our desire to live according to His purpose. When we choose to stand firm in our beliefs and values, we may face challenges and isolation, but we also open ourselves to extraordinary experiences of God’s presence and guidance.

Setting yourself apart is a beautiful calling that reflects your commitment to God. It requires courage, perseverance, and a willingness to grow. As you navigate this journey, remember that God is with you, equipping you to shine brightly in a world that desperately needs His light. Embrace your identity in Christ, and let His love transform you as you aim to make a difference in the lives of those around you.

Lonnie…