Bryan and his dad, Ed, share such a bond forged at birth.

As a new mother with a special needs baby, I could not have hoped for a more supportive, loving partner. In fact, our relationship deepened and grew even more-so after Bryan was born.

There was no squeamishness at changing nasty diapers or cleaning up the baby vomit which cropped up after most feedings.

Ed helped me with Bryan’s infant stimulation exercises done daily in the home to optimize development.

The two played together at home, playground, and beach during Bryan’s childhood years. It is a gift to be able to see the world through a child’s eyes and retain that sense of wonder, discovery and play. Ed could do that.

He still does. As Bryan grew, his father continued to provide him with educational adventures, growth opportunities and life lessons. They build things together, explore submarines and air craft carriers, fly in the sky in biplanes and gliders, sing lustily to their favorite tunes and bodysurf the waves in unison at the Avalon beaches.

However, sometimes he’s had to be stern with Bryan, especially in circumstances where his son is doing or saying things which are inappropriate. This is done out of love with an eye towards modeling behavior for Bryan which will carry him more easily through a life sometimes fraught with hurdles at every turn.

My father had that kind of an impact on me growing up. I wish Bryan had met him. I know they would also have had an incredible bond.

But I thank the Good Lord that Bryan has an involved, caring father who has helped to mold him into the man he is today. Ed’s example has so influenced Bryan that he, himself, has voiced the desire to also become a father someday.

It breaks my heart to know that dream will probably never be realized. And, yet, Bryan’s yearnings are a natural part of his growth and maturity – largely due to a stellar example of an earthly father and his unwavering love of his Heavenly Father.

Psalm 103:13 Just as a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him. (NASB)