Fathers and Daughters

"There's something like a line of gold thread running through a man's words when he talks to his daughter, and gradually over the years it gets to be long enough for you to pick up in your hands and weave into a cloth that feels like love itself. ~John Gregory Brown

There is something very special about the relationship between a little girl [and a not-so-little girl] and her daddy. I have been blessed with a lovely relationship with my own dad: he's the one I would run to as a child, and even as an adult, for any reason at all. One of my most comforting memories is of climbing up into his lap, burying my face in his shoulder [which generally was clothed in a fresh, clean, white shirt] and crying out my frustrations. He was always willing to be covered with tears, and in my later years, mascara as well. That's something I still like to do -- climb up into his lap and snuggle with him. I have always felt peaceful, safe and loved there.

It's been wonderful to watch my own daughter with her dad. She still [at age 30] calls him 'Daddy' and there is a deep and precious line of love that runs between them. It's been fun to watch their relationship settle into a cherished friendship.

And now, what a gift to watch Miss Maya with her own daddy. They adore each other, and I see much of my own relationship with my dad as I observe the love she and Chris share.

It's wonderful to see boys and dads too, but there is just something tender and sweet in the love of a girl and her daddy.