Religion Homework and Life Lessons

For my online religion class, I had to interview my parents about ‘what they have learned about the Lord's purposes in bringing the two genders together in marriage.’ I thought one comment was particularly insightful:

“Men and women often see and respond to situations very differently. Families are happier and more balanced when men and women bring their strengths and weaknesses together, seeking to learn and grow…When a child falls and gets hurt, they are blessed if they have a mother to tenderly give them a hug and a father to pick them up, brush them off and send them back into the battle with an extra bit of strength, confidence and courage.”

My parents show their love in very different ways. My mother is probably the most sincere person I know, and just has that way about her. When she tells you that she loves you, there is no doubt in your mind that she really does. Writing long, meaningful emails and letters just comes naturally for her! My father loves me just as much, but he shows his love in completely different ways. I doubt anyone works harder than my father, and I swear he can fix anything. It’s through these acts of service that my father demonstrates his love for us. Though he may come across all rough and tough on the outside, he also has a tender heart. Growing up, I can remember many occasions when in a tender moment, seeing tears come to my father’s eyes.

The point I am trying to make is that everyone shows their love in different ways. Here are a couple examples of typical emails from my dad:

Hey

We have been reading your blog! And wondering how you stay out of the chinese prison system?? haha We are busy as always. Guess you heard we paid off the house.  

Keep smiling and be careful. 

LOVE DAD

Hey Buddy

Thanks for the note. Things are about the same here.  Matt is gearing up for the big play.

Love DAD

If I based his love for me on the expectation of long, meaningful letter, I might have thought that I was an afterthought. Instead, I read these short little notes and smile, taking it for what it is: an expression of love.