"Rooted in Love"

Slater Hayes Podcast

Father's Day....that day when the feelings of those who seek to convey their true emotions oftentimes falls flat; bereft of what is truly intended and what is deep within one's heart.
More likely than not, that recurring gift of a necktie, socks or handkerchiefs are used as a symbolic gesture to express those words that seem to never find life-seemingly stuck somewhere within a brain that formulated the words, a heart that welled up as it formed an agreement with one's brain, and one's mouth. How do those eloquent and heartfelt words become suddenly caught in one's throat when attempting to allow them to flow past one's lips.
"Rooted in Love"
are some of the thoughts I had of my dad as I prepared this piece years ago so that my wife Marjorie could share them with her dad. I must admit, I was somewhat
jealous/envious over the years as I witnessed the love that was shared by Marjorie, and her sister, Janet, towards their father.
It was truly a BEAUTIFUL relationship to witness, to experience, as they heaped words of love upon him.
You see, my expressions of love for my father were oftentimes conveyed through acts. I can truly say that this was learned behavior because that was the manner by which my dad expressed his love; through relentless hard work and providing those things referenced in "Rooted in Love"
It took me years to understand that and move our relationship past all that I learned from him. It took me years to understand that the way he expressed love was by his actions(actions that were not always pleasant) and not his words.
I am so happy that I was able to move our relationship into one that was filled with joyful firm handshakes and the occasional hug-the simplicity of sitting with one another and laughing and joking about mundane things that, as I now recall were FILLED WITH SEEDS of WISDOM.
My wife's dad exhibited his love from both perspectives and, as an educated man, shared with me through his actions how both could be done. He also IMPRESSED upon me that my dad shared "what he had."
I thank GOD for my dad, Herman Veal, Sr. and all that he taught me.
I thank GOD for my wife's dad, Robert W. Green, and all that he taught me.
I was extremely fortunate to have had both of these men in my life.
I can only pray that what I have conveyed to my son, Jamil, and ALL the other young people that I have encountered is worthy of them grasping and possibly utilizing along their journey.
OUR SPIRIT...LIVES!!!
PEACE!!!