Tomorrow is a big day for us in my Miller family.  Tomorrow my dad turns 80.  Most of my life, I’ve not thought much about age.  At first it seemed like it took forever for me to get from birthday to birthday.  Suddenly after I had children the years seemed to come quicker and quicker until suddenly it’s the day before my dad turns 80!  

When Raymond was born in 1942, the average wage per year was $1,880.00.  A house would cost you about $3,770.00 to buy or about $35.00 a month to rent.  A new car was about $920.00 and a Coke would cost you 5 cents.  America was now involved in World War II which meant a mobilization of war efforts with car makers and other manufacturers changing to producing weapons of war.  The minimum draft age was lowered from 21 to 18.  Everyone was asked to do their part in helping with the war effort. 

Things were more challenging on the Miller farm when Raymond was born.  There was no running water or electricity in the house at that time.  A struggle that many of us have never experienced.  However, just because it was different didn’t mean that the normal daily things didn’t get done.  They just were completed a little differently.  

I have learned many things from my dad.  The correct way to start a camp fire, how to drive on ice, how to make ghoulash and how to change a tire.   The most important things I would say I’ve learned from him is the faith in the Lord that he has shared with me and his perseverance.   As many do, my family has seen it’s share of struggles.  But my father’s integrity and perseverance taught me that when you are trustworthy, honest and do the right thing even when it’s not easy you can accomplish much. 

So tomorrow Raymond, as you tell people this is the 51st anniversary of your 29th Birthday, may you know how loved, appreciated and treasured you are Raymond Miller.  May you have a great day and a wonderful year.