A successful 80 years!

Curt Johnson speaking on his 80th birthday

Earlier today we celebrated my dad's 80th birthday with the company of family and friends in Northfield, MN. The following quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson perfectly sums up dad's past 80 years....

"To laugh much; to win respect of intelligent persons and the affections of children; to earn the approbation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty; to find the best in others; to give one's self; to leave the world a little better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch, or a redeemed social condition.; to have played and laughed with enthusiasm, and sung with exultation; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived--this is to have succeeded."

Norwegian celebration cake



He's been a pastor, youth agency director, Chaplin, gardener, role model and encourager for many.  Continued blessings to dad in the years to come!