Family Ties
Every time we cast a line, Daddy and I catch memories that are bigger than any fish in the lake.
Teacher Amie Rolland knows that home is wherever her dad is.
Adad is every child’s hero—if they’re lucky, as I am, to have a great one. I’m an English teacher in Beijing, China, who was born and raised in north Louisiana. After I moved away, my folks sold our home and bought a new place on the lake.
I was a bit leery of returning to this new house, but when I walked in, it was home. Family photos line the hallways and shelves. And my dad’s drums sit in a room full of Dallas Cowboys memorabilia and enough records and CDs to open a music store.
My favorite thing about going home is fishing with Daddy. When I was home recently, it rained most of the time, but as long as the rain wasn’t accompanied by thunder and lightning, he was standing in the backyard throwing a line.
When my dad isn’t working, you can find him fishing. Growing up, I often took this for granted because if I’m not hooking any, I get bored. I realize now how precious our time together is. Whenever I fish with Daddy, I think about Trace Adkins’ song, “Just Fishin,” because it really is always more than that.
Eternity wouldn’t be enough time to go fishing with my Daddy. Living abroad has taught me to cherish the smallest of moments. But we really shouldn’t have to be separated to remember how much our family loves us.
We never talk about the really personal things, because I’m his girl and he’s my daddy, ya know? But the thing I love most about him is how he reacted when he knew I was unhappy in our hometown.
I’ll never forget the moment he told me I should leave home.
That was painful, I know. And I see how it takes every ounce of his courage and strength to put me on a plane each time I leave. I can never thank him enough for giving me the push I needed.
I take after my dad in many ways, and I’m thankful for each trait, even the bad habits. I love the bond we share, and although I can’t remember every moment, I have millions stored away.
I’m writing this to ask you all to remember and cherish your family every day, not just on the holidays. Happy Father’s Day, Dad. I promise to never get so wrapped up in this crazy life that I forget how to find my way home.