Never Kneel

Dear Dad,

Perhaps not enough time has passed since writing you last. Where you are, time doesn’t exist – nor should it – so I can only wonder what the delivery time is on these letters. Truth be told, I hope you aren’t reading them because you are enjoying every bit of Heaven. To come back and read something like this, or even to think of your time here on earth, would be a step backward from the glory you are currently experiencing. Perhaps these are just the thoughts I wish that I had shared with you when I had the chance, and never did.

It’s during the night time that you come alive to me. Sitting here at my desk, I think of all the late nights where you and I would trek across Columbus, OH at hours more commonly known to nocturnal creatures. When I think of you, during these late hours, I remember you for the Father that you were to me and your family. You come back to me on many occasions where I think of the lessons you taught me. Come to think of it, I’m listening to Steve Taylor on a pair of Klipsch headphones. You taught us to always have a good pair of headphones, from your AKG’s to The Plugs, you taught us how to appreciate quality and function more than a popular name.

Dad, I cannot help but think of you as I’m sitting here; hopped up on a Monster energy drink (one of four) as I prepare for a long night of work. Yes, I know I ought to be more careful with my body. I’m realizing that there are times where a son wants to be just like his dad, even in the bad habits that he knew so well. There are times where I wonder whether or not I’ll have to fight the same battles you did. That’s for another time.

I turn 24 years old next week. I remember all of the birthdays I shared with you around our dining room table. The one birthday where you decided to give me one of my presents early; that truck was my favorite. Or the time where you gave me a Swiss Army watch, instead of the silly electronic toy I wanted at the time…I still wear that watch. You always knew how to make your kids smile.

You would be so proud of Lydia and Tyler. They are the happiest couple I know. Lydia’s well on her way to becoming a licensed nurse practitioner, and her relationship with Tyler is to be admired.

Dad, there are a lot of moments where you come to mind in an overwhelming way; striking me as a thought that hits my innermost emotions. These moments where life culminates in a split second and forces me to weigh whether or not I am living in the manner I ought to, valuing the important things, or loving our family in the best way possible.

As so here I am, ready to jump into an evening of work that will hopefully be the foundation of a strong and successful career, family, and life. I hope that I am living in a way that would make you proud. And I think you would be.

I miss you more than words know how to say, while also knowing in my heart that we will walk together again.

See you soon, Superman.

Your Son,

Aaron Plaat