Father’s Day morning found me reflecting on the people who show us how to navigate life. I have been fortunate all my life to have such a father. I realize not everyone does, but it could be a mother, a grandparent, a teacher, or a friend. And they may appear in different seasons of our lives.

What I’m seeing is this sense of quiet confidence, knowing that this person will do the right thing. In their presence, we absorb how to do it too. Treating people kindly, figuring out what’s next, navigating situations with grace – we have a quiet confidence that they would do the right thing, and somehow it empowers us to do the same.

Part of them becomes a part of us. It’s worth reflecting on the people who helped shape us and show us how to live. It’s lovely to find a way to honor them, whether it’s their photograph or their recipe or a plant from their garden now flourishing in ours.

Rich Mullins put it this way in his song, “Hello Old Friends”: Knowing morning follows evening Makes each new day come as a gift.