Wonderful Paradox

A note to my son Josh on his 24th Birthday

 

 

josh1

 

“You know you are truly alive when you’re living among lions.”
― Karen Blixen, Out of Africa

Josh… I’m amazed.

Dads have this wonderful paradox living inside them. On one hand, we strive to help our children grow up, become men and woman of character and then…


You encourage them to walk through the door of adventure.

On the other hand, you have spent years protecting, providing, prodding… praying. The investment of time, energy, tears and love, have changed the man you were. All of this has connected you with God at a level you couldn’t imagine before. You wake up and realize that this is the adventure you were born for.

A father, a coach, a mentor and a friend.

So my son, go live among the lions, be brave and courageous. Love people the same way. Live outrageously confident of the love Father God has for you and the adventure He has prepared.

“Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.” 1 Corinthians 16:13-14 ESV

I love you Josh…Happy Birthday!
Dad

 

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Comments

Bill (cycleguy) said…
Good challenge from a proud father to an adventurous son.
Jay Cookingham said…
Thanks Bill.... appreciate ya!
jasonS said…
Happy birthday, Josh. Great encouragement, Jay! Thank you.
floyd said…
Happy Birthday, Josh! God has given you a blessing of through your family and called you to walk a more difficult narrow and high path... God makes us strong when we grasp our weakness. Wonderful tribute, Jay. God bless you and all of yours.
Jay Cookingham said…
Thanks Floyd...He is an amazing young man!
Michael said…
Watching the authentic love relationship between the members of the Cookingham family, Jay, is a blessing to me. Authentic because it includes the messy glitches by which God moves us forward, growing us in love. Thank you for sharing your family with the rest of us. And to you, Josh, a wonderful birthday filled with the legacy of your father's courage and love, the legacy and birthright of the Father of you both, even Jesus...
Jay Cookingham said…
Thanks Michael...God has been so very kind to me. I have terrific relationships with my kids and it is a blessing for sure.

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