Remembering My Father on Father's Day 2023

This is a cross-post of content originally posted earlier today on Facebook.

In 1957, Father’s Day fell on Sunday, June 16th. That was the day that I was born.

When I was a boy, my dad told me I was not obliged to ever offer him a Father’s Day gift. My 1957 Father’s Day gift was making him a father. That was enough for him.

My father, Jerry Davidoff (1926-2009), was a fine and careful writer. As I have been writing fervantly lately for social media, my blogs, and in letters, my father’s example has inspired me.

About three weeks ago, I placed on my desk this photo of Dad at age — what? age 12? age 13? — writing at his family's home in Sunnyside Gardens, Queens, N.Y. The year must be 1938 or ’39.

Dad, once again this year there is no Father’s Day gift for you. Please accept my thanks for being a great father. I know you’d be looking forward to a new iteration of fatherhood with your first great-grandchild expected in September. My memories of you and your father will guide me into being a good grandfather.

Dad, I love you. Always. Just like you’re with me always.