Today is my dad’s birthday. This man is my rock, my mentor, my encourager, my friend.

Having served as a teacher and principal for the majority of his adult life at Nashville Christian and Friendship Christian, he has shown that he truly cares about God and His Kingdom by turning down higher paying jobs to reach more for Christ.

Recently, the man retired, and his Facebook post said this:

“When I was 12 years old I went into business for myself. I had a push mower and would cut an acre of grass for $5.00. My first job where I punched a time clock was working in the toy department of Cain Sloan in downtown Nashville. On June 6, 1966 I graduated from high school and the next day I headed to Kentucky to work on pipeline with my uncle. I worked at UPS at night to help put myself through college. After graduating from college I found myself going into the profession I loved-teaching. As a teacher I found it necessary to do odd jobs to make ends meet. I have worked as a plumber, custodian, order puller, warehouse supervisor, bus driver and the list goes on and on. After 12 years at Maple Hill church of Christ, I have decided to retire at the age of 66. I will be 67 years young in a couple of weeks. It feels odd / strange to know that today was my last day of being paid to work. Now Elaine and I will look forward to being together each and everyday. I struggle with ending my employment at Maple Hill, but really look forward to being with the love of my life. I am thankful for the ones I have come in contact with through the years. I above all people feel blessed.”

He didn’t come from wealth. He never sought fame. In fact, when Micah 6:8 says “the Lord has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” – my Father took that and made it His life. Never have a met a more humble man. Never have I met a man who walked in the right ways more than him. And never have I met a man who has shown more mercy.

I haven’t always been the best son. I’ve made my fair share of mistakes in life. But I’ve tried my best, and the simple fact is this: my two careers in my adult life have been patterned after what my father did – teaching and ministry. Imitation is the best form of flattery, right?

So, happy birthday dad. May your first birthday in the retired years of your life be the first of many. You still have a lot of people to impact.