Father’s Day, marked by pancake breakfasts and backyard barbecues, carries a bittersweet tone for me. It reminds me of the years gone by and the moments I’ve missed with my father, yet it’s a day filled with joy as I create new memories with my own kids. I cherish sharing stories about their grandpa and the wisdom he imparted. Beyond his warmth and humor, he often shared life lessons that resonated deeply with me—even if I pretended to tune him out with my headphones.
So, fellow parents, if you think your kids aren’t absorbing your words because they seem disengaged, remember that they might be paying attention more than you realize. I can hear my dad’s rich voice echoing as I jot down his timeless advice over a plate of gooey chocolate chip cookies.
- Your reputation is invaluable. Protect it at all costs. Always strive to be good, and if that’s not possible, at least be discreet. In today’s world of oversharing on social media, this can be challenging.
- Aim to brighten someone’s day. Kindness goes a long way—always remember your manners and the power of saying, “Please,” “Thank you,” and “I’m sorry.”
- Dress elegantly and avoid clothing that might prevent attention. For Dad, this meant steering clear of bold nail polish or lipstick, a preference I still hold today.
- There are three types of people: those who observe, those who take action, and those who wonder what just happened. Strive to be the doer.
- Physical beauty may fade, so cultivate your intellect. Embrace reading and education. Our special reading time with Dad fostered this love, complete with vocabulary lists he’d hang in the bathroom for impromptu quizzes during dinner.
- Our home may not have had a musical prodigy, but it was always alive with diverse melodies.
- Generosity in tipping is crucial; remember, you could be in their shoes one day.
- Hold onto your faith.
- Be an inviting host; make everyone feel at home.
- Step outside your comfort zone. You won’t forge friendships if you remain a recluse.
- Choose a partner who is intelligent, kind, and hardworking, and who respects their family.
- Maintain a bit of mystery; don’t show too much interest too soon. My dad believed in the allure of being a bit elusive.
- Be mindful of your words; they can wound and alienate. I learned this lesson well, often engaging in friendly debates with him.
- Cultivate good friendships. Show affection, generosity, and care for those around you.
- Money isn’t endless, so use it wisely. However, he enjoyed treating us to delightful meals and lovely environments.
- Contribute to your community and do so often.
- Family is paramount. Cherish and respect your parents and siblings, and keep in touch with your grandparents.
- Honesty is essential; lying creates unnecessary stress. Avoid arrogance and refrain from boasting.
- Dad often said, “One warm day doesn’t indicate summer.” This taught me to avoid snap judgments about people or situations, a lesson I frequently share with my kids.
- Chocolate strengthens the parent-child bond. We spent many nights chatting and snacking on Reese’s Mini Peanut Butter Cups or freshly baked cookies.
Do you have any fatherly wisdom to share?
This article originally appeared on June 12, 2011.
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Summary
In celebrating Father’s Day, I reflect on the invaluable lessons my dad taught me, from the importance of reputation and kindness to the significance of family and honesty. These teachings, wrapped in memories of shared moments, continue to guide me as I nurture my own children.