Earlier this month the News-Times reported that it would sponsor an essay contest for Father’s Day, inviting readers to send essays of 200 to 300 words telling us how their father’s have impacted their lives. Essays were accepted in two categories; those under age 18 and those over age 18.
Today we announce the winners and also include an honorable mention that speaks to the value of surrogate fathers in our society. Many thanks to all who took the time to submit essays.
To all the fathers and surrogate fathers we say Happy Father’s Day!
Enjoy!
Under 18 Category
Learning the skill of endurance
By Rylee Bass
13-years old
As the familiar holiday known as Father’s Day rolls around we tend to overlook the true meaning of the occasion, which is to celebrate and recognize everything that our fathers have done for us, in addition to the astounding difference they have made in our lives.
There are numerous attributes that make my father, Scooter Bass, so exceptionally admirable. My dad has taught me many valuable skills and life lessons.
He has demonstrated exemplary qualities that I believe are essential. For 22 years, my father has devoted his life to serving our community and the citizens of Union County as a law enforcement officer. I have learned sacrifice, bravery, honor and patience, as well as so many other things from this factor alone.
I have witnessed commitment and promise from my dad through his marriage of 17 years to my mom. He plays a crucial role in our household by doing things like grilling, cleaning, and protecting my mother and I. Since my dad is the only guy in our house, I experience the skill of endurance from him.
For the adventure of the 13 years I have been on this earth, my father has been there every step of the way to guide me and pick me up when I am down. I have recently begun to really appreciate how protective my dad is. He cares so much for me and makes a daily impact on my life.
There are truly not enough words that could convey how big of a difference my dad has made in my life. On this Father’s Day, I wanted to take the time to tell my dad how much I love, cherish, and appreciate him. There are billions of great fathers’ in the world, but I firmly believe that I got the very best one of them all.
Over 18 Category
From martial arts to cars to weapons to cooking
By Kayla Horn
I want to tell you about my father and how he has made a huge impact on my life. My father has been a part of my life for a full twenty-seven years and now is part of my daughter’s. My father has always been a family man and enjoys taking the extra time he has to spend it with the family. He has taught me more about life and living life to the fullest.
He has taught me how to protect myself using the most ancient form of martial arts called “Kun-Tao.” When I was a little girl, maybe ten years old, my sister and I used to go to the dojo to take classes in “Kun-Tao” along with my mother and father. My father continued to learn more over the years and worked his way up to receiving a black sash in “Kun-Tao.”
Throughout his life he has earned a great amount of degrees and certificates. He became a doctor at twenty-three years old. And he earned his degree in chiropractic and acupuncture.
He has taught me about cars since he’s a big fan of collector cars, and is very knowledgeable in that field. He has shown me how to check oil, change a tire, wash and wax a car and how to fix minor things here and there. I’ve always helped assist him when he would be working on his cars.
My dad has taught me about a large variety of weapons, he has shown me how to use guns properly. Taking them apart, cleaning them and about all the different calibers and ammunition. I used to go to target practice with him and I still do.
He has also taught me how to cook many different meals and how to pick out fresh meat and vegetables; he’s even shown me how to jar and store food, so I can survive off the land.
Years ago when I was in high school, and even before then, he helped me with my homework and studying for tests, while I was struggling in math and geography.
My dad has taught me so many different aspects of life, that if I didn’t have him in it, I could not have made it to where I am today without him.
My dad takes time out of his day to teach me and speak on these thing because he loves me. I love you dad, you’re the greatest father in the whole world. Happy Father’s Day!
Honorable Mention
Growing up without a father
By Julie Spencer
When I read about the essay contest for Father’s Day, I initially dismissed it, as I grew up without a father. Throughout the day, however, I found myself thinking of all the wonderful men God put in my life to shepherd me through my childhood and stand in the place of a father. And I thought of my husband—my hero and my sons’ hero, a great husband and father—and realized that instead of feeling left out of Father’s Day, I should spend the day counting my blessings.
Though I had no father at home, I was blessed to have a loving grandfather, Shad Medlin, who represented security and affection. I was the “apple of his eye,” and I attribute my strong faith in Christ to him. I have three uncles, Drew, Jim, and Courtney Sheppard, who have always made me feel they were glad to see me. They have been present at all the important events in my life, and they have always provided that all-important dad quality—incessant teasing and joking. Many of my friends’ fathers and many of the men at my home church, First Baptist Church of El Dorado, served as surrogate dads for me—giving advice and spiritual guidance.
I thank God for my husband, John Spencer, who daily shows me what a true father is. He prays for our three sons, teaches them how to work, and knows when it is time to drop everything and play with them. Through him I have seen the struggles and great joy that fatherhood brings.
Happy Father’s Day to all of you—may God make you a blessing to your families and to children around you who, like me, need to see a father’s love in action.