Lasting influence

Neither of Adam's brothers have attended church much or at all since they were teenagers.  That has not stopped them from showing their love and support to Adam with his new calling.

With their own brand of personality and humor, they have reached out to him multiple times.  One (and I can't remember which right now because it could have been either) asked him if he had hired his offensive and defensive coordinators yet (picked counselors to recommend).

On Saturday, Brian called to let Adam know he was thinking of him and then he proceeded to give him advice.  It was advice based on how their dad served as bishop back when they were all teenagers.  Brian reminded Adam (which Adam has fully had on his mind anyway) of all the good things their dad had done as bishop.

I marveled at the lasting influence of a good dad.  All these years later, he is not here with us physically, but he is here with us.

Brian told Adam that he was sending something for him.

After Adam got off the phone, he told me about the conversation.  He said, "I have no idea what he is sending me."

Then he said, "Wait!"

A slow smile spread over his face and he told me about a picture of a copper beaver Linn had in his bishop's office.  

Adam said, "Maybe that is what he is sending."

Linn was called as bishop right before their family embarked on a 4 week cross country road trip from Seattle to Florida and back.  He flew back a week early to prepare for becoming bishop and the rest of the family drove the last leg.  They stopped at a copper mine in Montana and bought the picture for Linn.

Sure enough, when Geri arrived later that day, she had a gift for Adam.

I love that Adam will have this tangible reminder of his dad and family while he serves.

I also love that he doesn't really need it to remember.  His dad is imprinted on him in many ways.  

I am grateful to be a part of the Davis family.  Linn and Geri are wonderful parents who loved and supported and sustained their family through ups and downs like any family experiences.

Geri has continued on in that without Linn by her side, but I know he is not far away.

And I know this separation isn't forever.  What is forever is their eternal family and the lasting influence of good parents.