Published on December 17th, 2004.
Viewed 1809 times.
Story rank of 68.
My father often portrays himself as a the quiet, tall giant that intimidates people due to his height and broad shoulders. And along with those characteristics he is not one to talk much or be the center of attention at any given time. Until the day of my wedding....
I have always admired my dad for being authentic. Since I could remember my dad has always been on the quiet, reserved side. Never talks just to talk but yet has a keen sense of humor, dry some would say. I have always loved his witty comments and the way he could command a room with his presence. I learned early on that my dad can be intimidating. He is 6 feet 4 four inches tall, very broad shoulder and not overweight by any means. I love to cuddle up next to him because he engulfs you and makes you feel safe. So the young men who would come around to date me would be very cautious. First of all because of his size and second he always had a skeptical look towards them. He would never say much around them and kept them guessing if he really liked them.
So, during the courtship to my future husband my father was the same quiet, reserved, "what are your intentions with my daughter" man. Which thoroughly convinced my husband-to-be that my father disliked him. It took many months to convince my significant other that he was wrong about my dad. I just had to explain that he doesn't open up much and that time will bridge the gap once he knows you are just as authentic as he is. So when it came time for our wedding day my dad knew he had to give a speech/toast. I never really asked him what he might say because I figured he would keep short and sweet. What a great surprise and laugh when he stood up there and was his very witty self. Here's is his only daughter becoming a wife and he took his sentiment and made it so comfortable with laughter. He explained to everyone: "That it was official and in writing that I was "A PAIN" (my husband's last name is PAYNE and my first intial "A")". It was something my parents have know all their life but it was official now. And with all contracts comes the fine print: Take as is. No refunds, exchanges or upgrades. Non-transferable, and so on. It made the entire party erupt with laughter. He stood there for at least 5 minutes and was so poignant & proud. I have never seen my dad so happy and sharing so much of his true self with everyone. It made me very proud to be his daughter. So, for a man a few words most of the time, he stole the show that night and I wouldn't have traded sharing our spotlight with anyone else. Thanks Dad.
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