Father's Day is a special occasion on which to celebrate the men who work hard to give their children the life lessons needed to become responsible adults committed to families and home communities.
I am blessed to have several friends who are indeed loving and caring dads and whose sons and daughters reflect the positive influences of their paternal parents.
Given the tumultuous times in which we live, fathers -- be they young or old, rich or poor, settled in or still searching for career and personal fulfillment -- must feel a certain angst about protecting their offspring and seeing that they grow into productive men and women.
I still miss my father and the conversations we shared about any number of topics -- politics, the economy, the ever-changing world, and yes, sports. As the only child of a father who was an accomplished golfer, a good tennis player, and a baseball enthusiast, it was only natural that I learn something about athletics.
Dad had strong opinions about a lot of different things and while we shared similar views on various subjects, we also engaged in friendly -- and respectful -- debates.
He was a stickler for good manners and from his example, I early on learned the importance of treating others with courtesy. It may be old-fashioned and seemingly too prim and proper for some younger people, but I try hard to always say, "Please" and "Thank you" and "Yes, ma'am" and "Yes, sir."
My father was good at math, which was always an anathema to me. I was so embarrassed about a low grade on an eighth-grade test that facing him was difficult. But, good dads are about teaching and helping, and he showed a world of patience in getting me up to speed.
Generally speaking, my father was reserved and not one to engage in argumentative hyperbole. When his mother-in-law -- my maternal grandmother -- spoke out against my decision to study journalism because she felt it did not pay enough and was an "unfit profession for a young lady," he simply reasoned that his daughter should pursue whatever career would make her happy.
Thanks, Dad. As they say, "Father knows best."
Despite his self-effacing personality, Joseph Russey Brown had a wonderful wit, appreciated good humor, and according to my mother, was quite the dancer.
He was also kind and generous and valued the diverse individuals who came into his life.
My father had a real passion for Western movies and Cajun food, having been born in St. Mary Parish, La. He also loved to cook, acquiring tips and recipes from his mother, who was known around her neighborhood as quite the kitchen maven.
On this day of remembrance, I again say how grateful I am for my father and his unwavering dedication to my well-being and that of my mother.
And, I send my very best wishes to the devoted fathers who make such a difference in all our lives.