One member of law enforcement was overcome with emotion as his children shared a heartfelt and moving message. 

Change is an inevitable part of life. Goodbyes, which often accompany change, are usually never easy. Whether it be losing a loved one, ending a romantic relationship or leaving a job, emotions can bubble to the surface. 

Michael Schlie, the former chief of police for the Deer Park Police Department in Ohio, got a special send-off during his last shift on the job. The long-time department member was given a ceremonial last call by his children that had all three of them emotional. 

The video posted on YouTube gives a split-screen view. It shows Michael reacting on the left to the sweet and moving words from his children on the right of the screen. Seconds into the video, when his daughter begins speaking and after she mentions, “my father,” Michael knows he’s likely not going to be able to keep it together.

He places the walkie-talkie on the desk and then leans back into his chair, taking in the sweet message of love. It’s about 20 seconds into the video and Michael’s son takes over. Michael hangs his head down toward the ground, overcome with emotion.

Michael’s son ends his portion of the call with, “We are so proud to call you our dad.” What more could a parent want, to know that their children appreciated all their hard work and sacrifices? 

Michael’s daughter follows it up with, “Thank you for being a role model, a leader and most importantly, my daddy.”

That moving message came after the department posted on social media that Michael’s last day on the job would be May 1, 2023. He stepped down from his post after 32 years with the department.

Proverbs 22:6 “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”