The Living Years

As Father’s Day draws near each year I am reminded of a song by Mike and the Mechanics from 1989, “The Living Years.” I have always liked this song but it really spoke to me once my own father passed away.

Every generation

Blames the one before

And all of their frustrations
Come beating on your door

I know that I’m a prisoner
To all my father held so dear
I know that I’m a hostage
To all his hopes and fears
I just wish I could have told him
In the living years

My father was a huge influence on my life. He set an example for me that I try very hard to live up to each and every day. He loved the Lord with all of his heart and devoted much of his time to serving God in our church in any way that he could and made sure that we were at church each Sunday. He left me with some very big shoes to fill but I am thankful for the example that he set for me.

When my father passed away, there was no doubt in my mind about his fate. He knew Jesus Christ as his Savior and for that I am thankful. There is no better legacy to leave those that you love than the knowledge that you have Jesus Christ in your life and have gone to spend eternity worshiping Him.

The last verse of the song reminds us of the importance of loving those around us while we have a chance.

I wasn’t there that morning
When my father passed away
I didn’t get to tell him
All the things I had to say.
I think I caught his spirit
Later that same year
I’m sure I heard his echo
In my baby’s new born tears
I just wish I could have told him
In the living years

One of the things that I am most thankful for is that I was able to take the opportunity to tell my father that I loved him and appreciated him the last time that I saw him. I can continue living his legacy knowing that he knew how I felt. I am able to carry on the values that he instilled in me with no regrets. I know that we will meet again one day and I can’t wait to once again say “Thank You” for the guidance, the values, and his love of Christ that lives in me today.

Have you told your father how much he means to you lately? You may not get another chance, so take advantage of the time you have and live with no regrets.

Happy Father’s Day everyone!

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