Characters

Here he is. The man who inspired me to live today and tell the people I love how much they mean to me. He's accomplished more in his lifetime than you and I could dream of... so far. He doesn't do anything quietly or cautiously. He does it in CAPS. There has to be more for him. There has to be more for me, and for all of us. Get busy folks. Do a few card tricks. Amaze the people who know you best. Catch some crazy fish in Russia or South Africa. Collect fine wines. Cherish some singular, inspired artistic pieces. Love the second love of your life with all your might. Savor memories and dream a new dream. That's what Bill is doing. If he can do it, I can.

Now that father’s day has come and gone, I can finally write — not because the calendar says so, but because I mean it. My dad’s a real character. Everything about him proves that — his enormous musical talent, his corny sense of humor, his magician-like ability to create a masterpiece out of trash can lids, kazoos and power tools, his unending love for his bride. He’s not a demonstrative man, not apt to give casual praise or deliver prepackaged sentiments just because it’s “time to.” But he is very likely to look you in the eye, wait a beat so you know he really means it, and then say with voice breaking, “you did great” or “we’re proud of you” or “that was your best ever.” He taught me about value, purpose, honesty, humility, pride, and perseverance. He taught me to work hard and long, and to do it with passion. He taught me that excellence is worth pursuing. He taught me that heart is even more valuable than excellence. He taught me never to settle, never to give ...