Thursday, September 11, 2025

The Beautiful Journey of Faith, Family, and Love for God and a Blue Dress

Growing up, Sundays were always a special day for my family. Every week, my sister and I knew exactly what to do—by 9:00 a.m., we had to be ready. We’d hear my dad outside in the car, blowing the horn to let us know it was time to go. No excuses—church was important, and missing it was never an option.

I remember mom dressing my sister and I in matching blue dresses, white shoes, and white lace socks. She would pull our hair back with a white bow - maybe to hide the haircut she gave us (ha,ha). She always took extra care, making sure we looked nice for church. 

One of my favorite memories from those days was singing a song my dad would make us perform—"I'm the Reason" by the Inspirations.  I didn’t fully understand all the words back then, but I remember my dad every time would cry like a big old baby.  I always wandered why was he so emotional- now that I am older, I understand. It was because church meant so much to him; it was a place of faith, love, and a connection to God. 

Today, I looked up the lyrics to that old song because I couldn’t remember how it went, and I even watched a YouTube video to listen to it again. Hearing it brought back so many memories of those innocent days filled with faith and family.

Sometimes I wish I could go back and relive those moments just for a day. It’s funny how childhood memories stay with you—though I hated that blue dress back then, I realize now how precious those times were. Don’t you wish you could go back and experience it all again?

Now, my dad has passed away and is in Heaven, and my children are grown. It feels like those days in the blue dress and singing with my sister were just yesterday. I’m so grateful that my parents took me to church and taught me how important it is to have a relationship with Christ. Those lessons have meant everything to me and helped shape my faith.

Looking back, I see how those simple Sunday mornings helped me grow and learn about love, faith, and family. Even though I didn’t appreciate that blue dress at the time, I love it now because it reminds me of those precious moments. I know I’ll see my dad again someday in Heaven, and I hold onto those memories with gratitude.

Cherish your memories, hold onto your faith, and always remember the importance of family. Those simple Sundays may seem small, but they leave a lasting impact on our hearts.