Letter #4

Ok – I know I am a day late. Shhh! 

Day 4 — Your sibling (or closest relative)

Dear Dad,

You have always been more than just a father to me. You’ve been a friend, role model, and confidant. Sometimes I am sure you knew what I was thinking before I even did but that is not surprising. In so many ways we are alike – in looks, interests, personality, and even to some degree career paths. You’ve been next to me at many a Metal concert as well as the Symphony (and about every genre in between). We have witnessed some great sporting events. We have worked just a hallway apart. Much of who I am today was heavily influenced by you.

While I certainly have treasured every moment we’ve had, sometimes I have to admit it’s been hard to be your son too. You’ve set the bar pretty high and while we have chosen similar career paths, I’ve always been a little bit in you shadow. Militarily – you were the West Pointer who had a 20+ year career; I turned down West Point but did go ROTC to pay for college and spent 7 years in the Reserves. You got your MS in CS from GaTech; I’m still slugging away with mine so many years later. After you retired, you became one of the top teachers at the university; I am a pretty good adjunct instructor. You would never make such comparisons but on occasion I do. I always want you and Mom to be proud of me.

Thank you for being more than a Dad to me. You’ve been my best friend. I couldn’t ask for anyone better.

~Scott