I have been the only female in my household for all of my adult life. Despite the wishful thinking that I would be a mother of girls, my husband and I are parents of two sons. But, don’t feel sorry for me. I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Those who know me well have heard me talk, and possibly brag a little, about my boys who have both become very honorable men. Well, this proud mom has decided to put in writing a few of my favorite things about each one, as well as their amazing father. Three good men.
Choosing to honor each man on his birthday, I begin with the one I have known for the least amount of time. My younger son, Kyle, will turn 27 in a few days. When I think of Kyle, it makes me smile. And when we’re together, I’m almost guaranteed to end up laughing. I treasure the nickname his Grandpa Frisch bestowed upon him – “Smiley”. Kyle has always smiled not just with his mouth, but with his “really cool eyes”. His optometrist called them that, and he knows eyes!
I find Kyle’s sense of humor to also be really cool. In a quick search, I found a list of 20 different kinds of humor. I have heard Kyle say that his is self-deprecating and that he likes slapstick/physical comedy and satire. Reviewing the list, I think he would include screwball humor. What I find admirable is that my son does not appreciate off-color/blue, dark, mordant, or juvenile/sophomoric comedy. This is, unfortunately, what is so often used in today’s entertainment. I’ve often seen those eyes roll in the movie theater when potty humor brings giggles from the kids.
This good man has a keen interest in children’s entertainment, believing that kids deserve the very best, and finding it frustrating that excellence is not the norm. He is a fan of Jim Henson, Walt Disney and Phil Vischer and loves to perform his own hand-made puppets for kids and adults, making our family reunions unique and joyful.
Kyle is a gift-giver. He has been known to bring a treat to his co-workers when stress is high or morale is low. Using his God-given creative talent, he creates greeting cards, caricatures, and carefully crafted models of favorite characters for people he loves. His purpose in life is to bring joy to others, and I am a lucky recipient.
Kyle is compassionate. Not wanting anyone to feel bad, I have known him to purposely lose a game! Strangers also benefit from his caring. A favorite annual activity is purchasing items for a Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child shoe box. Compassion can be intense. On the day fifteen years ago when the World Trade Towers fell, Kyle was in middle school watching the day’s events on TV. Later he told me with tears that his thought was, “What if you were running with a friend from that huge cloud of dust and you got separated and never saw them again?”
My admiration is deepest when it comes to the serious side of my son. He is honest, hardworking, and full of faith. Kyle is able to quietly observe situations and wisely analyze motives and moral questions. He, more that most people I know, recognizes our Good Father’s work in his life and trusts God for guidance.
Happy Birthday, Kyle! I hope your day is full of smiles!
