LETTERS: A FATHER'S DAY MEDITATION

To the editor:

With Father's Day approaching, I began to meditate on how the father's role has so dramatically changed in the past decade. Saddened by this change, which has created a weak link in the morality of our nation, my thoughts turned to a father who never changes: the father of our nation, the father of every child, God. This inspired the following meditation:

Dear heavenly Father:

When I was a child, you were my hero. How I enjoyed hearing reading of the mighty things you had done. You constantly watched over me and sent your angels to protect me from all danger and harm. You filled my heart with dreams and gave me talents to use for your glory.

As a teen-ager, you were my companion and friend. You were always there with wisdom when I became confused. At an age when no one seemed to understand me, not even myself, you healed my hurts and wiped away my tears. You listened to my concerns and continued to guide me upon the proper path. Like a shepherd searching for that one lost sheep, you reached down, found me and held me in your arms each time I took a path that made me feel lost and alone.

As an adult, you gave me my wife to be my companion and helpmate. You blessed me with children to love and nourish as you loved me. As I continue to grow in wisdom and age, I have come to know you in a more personal way. Since I have become a father, I feel I understand you better as my father. In a minute way, I know the great amount of love you have for your children

You have filled my life with blessings, and all I have to give you is all that you ask from any of your children: my heart and my love. Happy Father's Day.

RON FARROW

Cape Girardeau