One day, when I was in high school, my Papa gave me a book to read. I did not really pay attention until I was really having issues in one of my oratorical competitions. We should speak only when we have a good message to deliver. It is not what but how we speak that really matters.
The book is Dale Carnegie's 'How to Win Friends and Influence People". Ever since it became my favorite and was always beside my Bible.
Two things I learned from my Papa which complimented the book's recommendation. My Papa spent time with his friends and those he influenced. And most importantly, he allowed himself to be vulnerable to them. So to be really a friend he taught me to spend time and be a true person even if you expose your vulnerability to your friends. That is what friendship and a true relationship is all about. To deliberately be influential is somewhat being manipulative and counter friendly. Papa taught to be just a real friend. Friends don’t do things with strings attached. He reminded me to be friendly but to not expect to be friends with everybody. A good friendship is a two way street. Relationships are like that.
Rest in peace, Papa.
