Cool Daddy Mike

The greatest example I know of a good father is Joseph, husband of Mary (yes, THAT Mary). Standing in as a father to a child whose birth was shrouded in mystery and suspicion AND being married to a woman whose very integrity and sanity was questioned--he stood tall as caretaker, provider and earthly role model. He covered both mother and Child with his love and identity until said Child came into His own...
The next greatest example I know of a great father is Melvin Merriweather--'Cool Daddy Mike' or as we said it 'Delmike'. He passed away in his sleep early Monday January 31. You see, technically (read 'biologically') he wasn't my Dad. But there was never a time in my life when he didn't treat me like his own son...and I WAS his son. His love and care, his availability, his grace under pressure and his peaceful spirit erased the 'stepfather' title from his name.
Melvin Merriweather did for me what Joseph of the house of David did for Jesus--he named me, protected me, opened his arms and life to me and mine. I know who I am because he knew who he was--a man who stepped in to do what was needed. A man who took on responsibility with dignity, humor, love and a peaceful spirit. When I grow up I want to be just like him.
Thanks, Delmike, for being there when I needed you the most.
Well done, thou good and faithful servant...
Rest In Peace...
In the pictures above, you see the man himself and 5 of 13 of my brothers and sisters.