Retired

For almost 27 years, my dad has been on the Norfolk Police Department. He's put his life on the line, like so many others, to protect and to serve. He's been shot in the chest and in the leg, and only by the grace of God is here with us today. He's encountered so many people who he's been able to share the love of Christ with, and because of his love for the Lord, he's made such a huge impact on so many other officers. He's also been a bi-vocational pastor for over fifteen years and has always focused on Kingdom building. Whether he's on the street, at a desk, or behind a pulpit, my dad is the same funny, wise, Christian man with the same beliefs and the same purpose. He's never been one to hide his Faith as to not offend anyone. After all, we were put on this earth to shine the Light of Jesus Christ, not cover it up, right?

Today, my dad was presented a Purple Heart (cue crying daughter) that was given after the chief read the citation from the night he was shot. Then he was given a plaque, and just like that, he was retired.

You can tell which one's retired just by the way they stand. ;)

 Officer in training. :)

<3 <3 <3 <3 <3 

I'm so thankful for my daddy and the influence he's had on so many. I'm thankful for his love and thankful for his discipline. I'm thankful that, since the day I was born, I've only known a caring father whose words and actions have pointed to Christ. One who has taught me and my brothers to always trust in the Lord and never give up hope. I'm thankful for his love for my mom and the example they've set through their marriage. I'm thankful for his unwavering faith and his drive to follow the Lord's leading. And most of all, I'm thankful to be my daddy's girl. :)