Always teaching...
One thing was always true about my dad--if he had something on his mind that he thought was important, he was going to tell you about it. For most of my life, his intentions were clear--if I get through to you, you will learn something that will make your life better, and I want that for you. He didn't stop at his family. He told everyone who would listen. The people who really knew him appreciated that about him. It was his way of showing that he cared.
I didn't always appreciate it as a kid, but looking back, I have a deep appreciation for all that I learned from him about life. As a counselor who now helps others improve their quality of life, I'm amazed at how many times I use something my dad said, or how he lived his life as part of a message I'm trying to get across. Sometimes a client will come back and reference something I told them about my dad that inspired them to make a meaningful decision or change in their life.
My dad's desire to help others through teaching them what he knew has become a big part of who I am, not just professionally, but personally as well. I have friends who bring notepads to lunch because they have learned from experience that they'll probably hear something they'll want to write down. It kind of makes me laugh, because I don't give it much thought, but I'm also really happy that I'm able to give them something they value. Something that doesn't cost a thing. For me, that's what life is all about. I am so grateful that I got that from my dad.
-- Linda