A Week of Best Friend Profiles: My Dad

My dad, Otto, is another one of my best friends. We get together 2-3 times a month for lunch and rent a movie. That’s him in the photo at my house when my dogs Brejae’ & Frodo bombarded him. My dogs love him to death!
My dad has overcome a lot of obstacles in his life and is living proof that just b/c you were abused as a child does not mean you have to be an abuser. He is a great father despite his insane childhood. He has taught me much about generosity, perseverance, standing up for myself, and following my dreams. He is a good Christian example of what a man should be.
Here is one of the poems I wrote about him. Keep in mind this was written by 15-year old, so it’s pretty awful. The message is clear, however.

The Proud Man

My dad was once a preacher,
He sued to preach every Sunday,
He would put on his suit and tie,
He liked to strut out that door

My father was a proud man
Until they hurt him,
They took his pride,
And now his strut was gone

He received another job,
He is a counselor,
His pride is returning,
The hurt is leaving

No matter what they did to him,
I will always be proud,
Whether he’s in a suit or sweats,
For he is my father

-Julie Zuckschwerdt 1987