Fathers

August is that fun month of the year when people begin to go back to school. Some are finishing up their schooling, and some are just beginning. I love this time of the year, I love autumn. Especially in Texas. The weather is still warm, the air is still humid, the leaves begin to change color, and school supply shopping was always a treat. Nothing like a bag of new, sharp pencils or a couple of new shirts for school. I remember loving to get ready for school (I know, I'm a nerd,) and one of my jobs growing up was helping mom get things ready for our school lunches.
One of my most memorable preparations for school, was the tradition in our family (as I'm sure is the same in many families) to receive a father's blessing before the new, upcoming school year.
"Persons desiring guidance in an important decision can receive a priesthood blessing. Persons who need extra spiritual power to overcome a personal challenge can receive a blessing. Expectant mothers can be blessed before they give birth. Many LDS families remember a sacred occasion where a worthy father gave a priesthood blessing to a son or daughter who was about to be married. Priesthood blessings are often requested from fathers before children leave home for other purposes, such as school, service in the military, or a long trip. Newly called missionaries often request a father’s blessing before they depart. I have a friend who is blind. He remembers how his father blessed him that despite his physical disability he would be able to complete the mission, be successful in his calling, and develop a great love for the people. I am a witness to the fulfillment of that blessing in the life of a wonderful Latter-day Saint." (Elder Dallin H. Oaks "Priesthood Blessings" May Ensign 1987.)
I have many memories of my father giving me priesthood blessings. I wont go into too much personal detail, but I am grateful he has always been a worthy priesthood holder in my home growing up, and I hope that someday my husband will be the same kind of father; a worthy priesthood holder who can give our children a father's blessing.
"Blessings given in circumstances such as I have just described are sometimes called blessings of comfort or counsel. They are usually given by fathers or husbands or other elders in the family. They can be recorded and kept in family records for the personal spiritual guidance of the persons blessed." (Elder Dallin H. Oaks.)
For my younger siblings, school starts tomorrow, and I don't start till mid-September. So for our Family Home Evening tonight, my dad is giving us all a father's blessing.
This is something that I look forward to. I love the bonding moments I have with my family; my siblings with me, my mom who writes it out for me, and especially my dad.
"The father of our home leads our family With wisdom's light in all that's right; My father's good to me.
The father of our ward tends with loving care Each member's needs with kindly deeds; Our bishop's always there.
And now we'll sing great praise and reverently recall The Holy One who gave his Son, The Father of us all.
Fathers are so special with a very special love. They watch us and protect us. They guide s and direct us Back to our home above." (Children's Songbook #209)