Today is my Dad, Bill Coopers birthday. As someone who is adopted, I could have ended up in a lot of places. I count myself extremely lucky to have gotten him as a Dad. Some kids dont even get one good parent. I got eight-and hes one of them Ive heard him tell the story many times of how the social worker called the house to tell him they had found him and Mom a baby. Dad said, totally kidding, Just so long as it isnt one of those mean red haired babies. The social worker had a long pause, and said Do you really care if she has red hair? Dad said What? I dont care if her hair is PURPLE! Although I never tested him on that I think Dad really would have been okay with it if I had dyed my hair purple. Hes been my biggest fan and supporter since the day he came and picked me up. I dont think anyone has enjoyed being a father more. Even after working hours that would kill most people, he would come home and tell us stories and teach us about Indian lore and plants and animals,and roll around in the floor with us. He would also tickle us till we couldnt breathe and were about to pee ourselves....he enjoyed that part more than we did. (And still laughs when he talks about it.) He also found time to build our house, raise a huge garden, put up a pool for us, landscape 10 acres, and serve the community in our church, as a scout leader, and on the school board. I have no idea how-Id have been dead from the landscaping alone. Although I boycott camping now, if the zombie apocalypse ever hits Ill have a fighting chance because of the things Dad taught me. We had everything materially that we needed,and a lot of what we didnt need but just wanted. It made Dad happy to give us things. We werent spoiled, but I remember a lot of nice vacations and shopping trips to Jeff City and Columbia. And a lot of really wonderful birthdays and Christmases. No one enjoyed giving presents as much as Dad. But more than that, he also spent time with us, and being a working parent myself, I realize just how precious a commodity and how hard to come by that time was. Dad always had time to spend with us, telling us how proud he was of us and how much he loved us. He always had time to listen to us and have fun with us. And he always had time to teach us about things that were really important--living your life with integrity and personal ethics, standing up for what is right and for people who cant fight for themselves. He taught us by example that its important to be grateful for the things youve been blessed with and generous to others when you have the chance. He also taught us by example to be honest and brave, and tough, but kind. There isnt a day that goes by when I dont use something he taught me. Thank you Dad, and happy birthday. You said youre planning for your next 65 years---well you damn well better be. Youre not leaving me here to do this on my own. Id not made it this far without you. :)
Posted on: Fri, 01 Aug 2014 21:21:38 +0000
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