I am a lucky man. In a world where millions grow up without the benefit of their father’s guidance or presence, I was lucky to have my Father there, every day, to teach (and sometimes punish)me. We were never rich, never had a mansion or a pile of material things, but Dad inspires by example. I understand the value of hard work, of continued learning, of open discussion, of loyalty, of countless other things, because of my Dad.
There is not enough space in this newspaper for me to describe all the ways that Dad has been an inspiration to me, even if I could find the correct words to express it all. As a parent now, I understand much better the sacrifices Dad made, the lessons he was teaching us, and the example he set for us, while we were growing up. I tried to use most of those lessons, in my own way, as my kids were growing up.
The inspirations still come every day for me, things Dad did, or said, that stuck with me. Sometimes, whether it was something he did today, or 30 years ago, I finally realize what he meant about something, and I still benefit from it.
There are too many inspirations for me to even think about, much less write about, so these will have to suffice for now.
You don’t have to be a PhD to be smart. Dad never went to college, but he is one of the smartest people I have ever met. He is always listening, learning, from the world around him. This inspires me to listen,and learn.
You need to tell people what you mean, without being mean about it. I don’t know how he does it so well, but he can start a discussion or argument without ever being mean or petty. I wish I could do that. I will keep trying.
If you don’t get off your butt and go to work, you don’t get paid. I saw Dad go to a factory job with a back so bad he couldn’t stand up straight some days. He went with a fever, with pneumonia, but he went. He had a family to support. This work ethic is lost on most of society today. I owe my work ethic to Dad.
No comments:
Post a Comment