My dad is a quiet man. He has always been one of little words, not overly conversational, but has a wonderful bedside manner and gentleness that makes people feel at ease. I would say that I got my introverted nature from my dad, although my mom's the same way so I guess I was double whammied.
I have learned a lot from my dad over the years, in a very different way than most people learn. My dad has never been a lecturer, he never sat me down to give me a talking to, never pulled me aside to teach me a lesson, never spanked or scolded me often. He taught me life lessons through his actions and modeling. As a child or younger adult I never gave much thought about how my dad was teaching me. He was always just the quiet, loving, giving man who looked out for my well being and made sure I was taken care of. As a parent myself now, I realize my dad was teaching me lessons all along.
My dad taught me that love comes in many different packages. We all love differently, some people love loud and big, others quiet and strong. My dad loves quiet and strong. I never question my Dad's love for me. Growing up we weren't real big on hugs and kisses, saying I love yous (until later in life) and words weren't his strong point, but his actions always told me I was his daughter, his love and his pride. My dad will do anything in his power for me. He is generous beyond anyone I know. His love is quiet, gentle and strong, a love I understand and find myself presenting to the people in my life.
My dad taught me that education and knowledge prepares you for what will come to you in life. Learning new things daily is an essential aspect of living successfully. Life lessons come in many ways, and learning isn't always a happy, enjoyable adventure. My favorite quote from my dad, "You pay for your education." THIS. IS. SO. TRUE. Sometimes we learn hard lessons and pay with the loss of money, but I think what he was really trying to say was, we are educated by not only our studies, but by our life decisions. We learn from everything we do, we may pay with loss of friendship, loss of respect, loss of happiness...yet we learn.
My dad taught me hard work will bring you success. My dad is a successful dentist because of his hard work. He built a business through hard work, education and determination. I see my dad now and know he has set up his business from so long ago and is enjoying his life now,even more, because of his success and hard work. My aunts and uncles like to share stories of my dad and his dedication for working as a young man. He held jobs through-out his young life. He is the oldest of 9 kids and I know the weight of his need to be an example was on his shoulders often.
My dad taught me a sense of humor will often be the saving grace in life. I got my sense of humor from my dad. We love to laugh, that Sacry Laughing Gene is an amazing gene to have...Thank for that one Dad! One of my favorite things in life...watching my dad laugh to the point of crying. My dad is so controlled, and calm, and watching laughter and joy take over is rewarding. He loves humor, he is a jokster, he has a great sense of humor, and his laugh is infectious. My dad knows how to have fun, he likes adventure and happiness. There is a time for control and calm, but there is also a time for fun and life is a little less serious if you can have a sense of humor.
Being the oldest in a large family may be a hard endeavour. My dad has never complained or said one bad thing about his childhood. He loves his siblings so unconditionally. Not one bad word has ever escaped his lips, in front of me, about his mom, dad or siblings. I know there were times he didn't see eye to eye with a family member, but my dad is good at loving and caring and being a devoted brother and son regardless. My dad is a leader in his family. I sometimes think it's because as the oldest, responsibilities just default to him, but as an adult I have come to realize it's more than that. He presents himself with grace, and strength. He takes on the role of leader whether by choice or circumstance. I try to be that kind of leader too.
There are so many more things my dad has taught me, many I'm sure he doesn't even know. My dad is not perfect, he has learned a lot of lessons the hard way, he has made mistakes, and I know he would say he is still learning daily, but what it comes down to is this. My dad taught me and continues to teach me that life is worth living, that I should make the best of what I have, be smart, laugh often and love unconditionally, give without reservation, and never ever forget where you came from.
I love you Dad! I wish we could spend more time together and lived closer to each other, but know that I think of you daily, love you unconditionally and will forever thank God that he allowed me to be your daughter. Happy Father's Day.
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