Good Men

If you click on this, to enlarge it, you'll see patience personified

I love this picture. It makes me laugh, because my brother-in-law, Justin, recently spent four days untangling fishing line from Barbie fishing poles (yes, they really are pink and yellow and have the "Barbie" logo on them) and wading out to pry fishing hooks from logs. This was one of the best conversations I've ever heard:

Justin: "Hey, guys, I think there's a bunch of snags right out here."

Kids continue to cast in that direction

Justin: "I'm thinking that maybe we should get our lines going a little more over here" (points)

Kids continue to cast in the direction of the log jam

Justin: (much less enthusiastic): "I'm just throwin' that idea out there, that's all"

So I laughed when I saw this picture because it reminded me of those mornings, but it also made me think about how much I appreciate and love men who are kind and patient and loving. Because this is a guy who is a very accomplished fly-fisherman. Who has spent untold amounts of time in some of the best fishing spots around, all by himself, enjoying the sport (think A River Runs Through It here). But he chose to spend these days calmly teaching seven kids how to fish. And Zane was right there by him, replacing lures and salmon eggs and giving encouragement. All the while, I'm sure, dreaming about being up on the nearby trails on his mountain bike. But he wasn't. He was here:

So, during this difficult week, when my own dad is on my mind so much, I am thankful for men who love their families and just generally make the world a better place. My brother, Scott, who is so tender, and wise, Zane's brother Layden, who has devoted his life to family, God and Country. My brother-in-law Levi, who has one of the most calming spirits I've ever been around and loves my kids like they're his own. My grandfathers, who are strong, physically, and otherwise. Over the years, I have met random people who knew my dad and, without exception, they always mention how special he made them feel. I feel pretty darn lucky to have all these guys in my life.