What Makes A Man

It was a rainy Sunday afternoon. I was very cold and wet. I was also wondering whether I was going to get a cold from standing out in the rain for so long. I was at a rally that I did not want to go to. It wasn't because I disagreed with this rally, it was just that I had led the previous two rallies and I was mentally exhausted from the 'political scene'.
So the question is... Why did I go? Well, my Papa was going to speak at this rally. My Papa is the only man in the whole world that I would follow him anywhere. I have the utmost respect for him and more. So I went. Papa had raised me when I was a boy. I was born with a birth father that could not deal with the pressure of being a family man. He left. By the grace of God, I was raised by Papa from the age of 9 on. He made me the man I am today. He taught me about being a man of your word, responsibility, and honor. He taught me how to treat a woman and others with dignity. My wife, children, and future grandchildren will be affected because of him.
I listened to his speech when he approached the podium. I am very protective of him (even though he doesn't need it). He spoke of HIS father and the way the line of men that I am descended from believe in hard work, honesty, and integrity. I was so proud.
The reason that I have lived my life the way I have is for one reason, I never want to disappoint him. He has never asked a thing from me, but I have never wanted to put him in a position to let him down. That is why I never had a child out of wed-lock, used hard drugs, or steal. I just wanted him to know that I try everyday to live up to his standards.
The Lord has blessed me with the presence of this man in my life. Without him, I am not sure what type of man I would be to this day. Thank you Papa.