I've had Father's Day on my mind since switching out our little seasonal logo on the homepage. I just came across an incredible article on the New York Times website. It is the story of a father with many faults and personal struggles who managed to be there for his children in one way. He wrote letters. While not all of us can relate to the family portrayed, we can all appreciate the point of view, wisdom and love this man imparted to his children through letters. Maybe it is also good to be reminded of the valuable lessons that can be taught by people (in this case a father) who aren't perfect and don't meet more typical expectations.

A bit of the article is quoted below. Here is a link to the full text.

The Words Of a Father, Wise and Flawed; A Broken Man Leaves His Legacy in Letters
By NEIL AMDUR
Published: June 20, 2004

This is a Fathers Day story of imperfection and failure, of multiple divorces and personal demons. But it is also a Fathers Day story of a broken yet stubbornly dutiful and devoted man. It is a tale pieced together with the scraps of letters that a loving father kept sending to his children over the years of discord and despair -- from distant locales, both physical and emotional. The letters are touched with encouragement and wisdom, tenderness and sorrow.