There are times in your life that make you proud to be a dad. Your child accomplishes something or does something that makes you step back and marvel at what a wonderful thing it is to have experienced it firsthand. I have been blessed with an amazing wife and 3 amazing children and I love witnessing these moments on a weekly basis. And while recently I have spoken of the amazing times that make me proud to be a dad, this weekend was a time where I was proud to be a son.
For those that do not know, I am a son of a preacher man. A PK (Pastor’s Kid). A proud son. My dad, The Reverend Donald Ng is the Pastor of First Chinese Baptist Church in San Francisco. This past weekend he delivered the commencement address at the American Baptist Seminary of the West graduation ceremony. He was also honored with an honorary doctorate.
Growing up I always felt I had to share my dad. But he always has time for me. While this weekend was filled with celebrations, banquets, and conversations interrupted by “Congratulations”, the thing I will remember most about this weekend are the times he made for me.
We woke up early and took a long morning walk down to Starbucks. We chatted about family and politics and the Red Sox. We talked about all the things we accomplished and all the great hopes for my children. I asked him advice on how to be a better dad and how to deal with the stresses of parenting (and paying for college). We debated theology and integrity and moral compasses.
I should note that I had an amazing time seeing my nieces and nephew, my brother in law and spending a lot of quality time with my mom too. But, on a weekend to celebrate my dad, he celebrated our relationship first. It was just me and dad. It was a great weekend.
Here’s video of my dad’s speech. I should note that my sister, also an ordained minister, gave the introduction. Enjoy.
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Gregory Ng
GOAL: Visit 100 National Parks as a family by 2020. Favorite Parks: Zion National Park, Mt Rainier National Park, Valley Forge National Historical Park
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