Fritz Pfister

To my Dad. Born in 1921 growing up witnessing the suffering of The Great Depression, the horror of WWII, and the sense of pride in Victory. A man with a heart of gold always wanting the best for his children, and as much for the disadvantaged in our society. A life long Democrat idolizing FDR and Kennedy. Busy working at various jobs but none he loved more than his independent news bureau, and as a reporter submitted numerous human interest stories that made the national wire services.

Not always available to attend my baseball or football games, however as a dedicated Cleveland Indians fan there were the trips to the ball park where I was introduced to ball players with names like Rocky Colavito, Tito Francona, Mud Cat Grant, Louis Appiriccio, Minnie Minnosa, Ford, Mantle, and Maris.

Those were the worry free days when there were no locks on the doors to your home. Everyone looking forward to the annual summer vacation at a cottage on Indian Lake, fishing, and amusement park. Thanks Dad for the memories. I love you, and am proud of you.

Why were those worry free days? Because as my dad championed the cause for social justice he always believed in America, the liberty, freedom, and the unlimited opportunities this great nation offered. No worries for we were Americans free and exceptional, reminding his children you could accomplish whatever you wanted.

Now in the twilight years of his life my dad has had an awakening. All the years supporting liberal causes, so called social justice, all well intentioned to bring about a better life for the poor, the disadvantaged, and for the working man, my dad has realized those good intentions have not produced the intended results. He has become alarmed and disillusioned by the direction of the country.

A president that doesn’t comprehend what an exceptional country America is. My dad saddened when the president was asked about American exceptionalism stated; I’m sure the French, and the Germans think they are exceptional too. My dad always for the working man is alarmed by the millions who can’t find jobs, and wonders whether America is returning to the dark days he witnessed in the 1930’s. For the first time in his life my dad voted against his party.

So on this day I challenge all American dads who want America to continue to be the land of opportunity, freedom, and liberty for their children to awaken to the path America is on today, and as an 88 year old dad has realized, we need to change course. If all American dads take that stand, then someday their sons will thank them for keeping America free, and a land of opportunity.

Happy father’s day everyone. God Bless America.

The opinions expressed here are solely those of Fritz Pfister, or identified sources,  and not those of RE/MAX Professionals of Springfield, or RE/MAX International.

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