Dear Richard

Dear Richard,

On the day you were born, I was more scared then a winter rabbit looking a coyote in the eye. The overwhelming responsibility in being a father scared the daylight out of me. So on the first day we met, I made you a simple promise.

My promise can be found in your name. You are the third Richard Oxley and my promise was to guide you to become a man of character like your Grandfather. The following are the traits I learned from Grandpa that I see in you.

Love your Wife: Grandpa always puts Grandma first. I see this in you by the way you treat your mom. You are always respectful and helpful. You look out for her. How a boy treats his mom is how he will treat his wife.

Family First: Grandpa was always there for his family. He attended every event in which his kids participated. He made sure his family always had what they needed. I can always count on you to be there.

A Loyal Friend: Grandpa's friends are friends for life. I see this in you and the Blendon Six.

Work Hard: No one on the planet worked harder than your Grandfather. He always said give your boss more than they expect. Anyone can make a cake but a good worker puts on extra icing. Grandpa always gives more than expected. I know you give more than Taekwondo expects.

Give Back: I cannot remember a day when Grandpa was not a community volunteer. The PTA, Cub Scouts, high school boosters, and now the Lions Club are just the big examples of his volunteer efforts. I see this in you with your efforts in Scouts, preserve clean-ups, and school.

Take Care of Your Money: There are two times not to spend money when you have it and when you don’t. If you buy something by quality so it lasts. Don’t buy things just to have them. I appreciate that you save more than you spend. Grandpa would be proud. Both of you might want to buy me dinner someday.

Stand for Something: Grandpa’s character is unwavering. You know where he stands. You have already faced challenges of character and you have stood strong.

Never Quit: Grandpa truly has an unbreakable spirit. His childhood was challenging, but he chose not to let it hold him back. When the factory closed and he had two boys in college, he didn’t wallow in self-pity. He went out and found work. No matter the challenge, Grandpa always puts one foot in front of the other and keeps going. You are like Grandpa. When you had a no change in Tae Kwon Do, you worked harder and kept going. I also see this in your school work. You and Grandpa have an indomitable spirit.

Soon you will be 18 and leaving for college. No matter where your life takes you, just live with character. Grandpa and I will always be a part of you. Just remember the promise I made.

On this Father’s Day, I simply say that I am honored to be the son of Richard Earl Oxley Sr. and proud to be the father of Richard Doyt Oxley. Grandpa and you are my best friends (next to your mom). You and Grandpa are my teachers and the greatest men I know.

Love,

Dad (The Other Richard Oxley)

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