Raymond Greenlaw

Bob, My Dad the Fisherman Raymond Greenlaw

IF YOU MISS YOUR DAD, READ THIS BOOK.

A great read from an extremely versatile author. He brings his father back to life through his heartfelt stories.

This book is about my father, his love of fishing, our relationship, and my memories about him. My Dad was born during the Great Depression. That event shaped his life and his thinking. It placed limits on him that he wasn't able to overcome. He wasn't perfect, and he knew it. My Dad was a smart man and raised me the best that he could. He provided me with as much love as he could. His love came in the form of companionship.

Men who were raised during the Great Depression needed to be tough for they'd endured tough times. Such men went through several wars. They weren't huggers; they felt that they needed to display great strength. I accepted my Dad for who he was. He was a sensitive man, who when confronted with his shortcomings, admitted them and tried to improve himself. Throughout his years, he grew and became a better person. I am extremely lucky that my father spent so much time with me.

Although my father was an extremely busy man, he always gave freely of his time for me. I'm exceptionally grateful for what we were able to share. Fishing was perhaps my father's greatest love after my mother, Roxy. My father was not among the best fishermen I ever met; he is the best fisherman I ever met.

As you read this book, you can see the types of relationships that fathers and sons used to have. Relationships where they shared vast amounts of time together, where they made time for each other, where they challenged each other to become better people, and where they strengthened their relationship through mutual respect, acceptance, and understanding. I won't ever get to see my father again and that hurts, but at least I can share our relationship with you, dear reader.

And, when I miss my Dad, I can turn to these pages. Here I can hear his voice, see him smile, and talk to him. He becomes alive again, and I can feel his passion. You'll share this experience with me while reading this book.