“A father is a banker provided by nature.” – Unknown proverb
I used to pride myself on my piggy bank of quarters. To get it full however, I had to steal quarters from my Dad’s lunchbox and car console when he wasn’t looking, or at least, when he was pretending not to look. Thanks to my Dad’s lifetime of 12-hour workdays and 4am commutes to D.C., paired with my Mom’s meticulous financial planning, I was provided an education and plethora of opportunities beyond my wildest dreams. Fathers, mothers and family are the foundation of what make many of our dreams grow into realities, and being that it is Father’s Day, it is an appropriate time to reflect on all the lessons that your father taught you, be them accidental or purposeful lessons.
Take time for yourself today to list all the ways in which your father has changed and shaped you for the better and share your list with him if you can. If you can’t, still make a list and tuck it away, for it is in realizing the power of those who have influenced our lives that we are forever bonded to them.
To my Daddy, thank you for the following lessons: (1). I know the value of change (especially quarters) because of you. (2). You taught me that it’s okay to be goofy and silly (blond) and still be smart. (3). That life just isn’t that serious and that any situation can develop into a good laugh. (4). I am never just “good” when someone asks me how I am doing; thanks to you and your variety of answers to this question, I am “just peachy”. (5). I am loved because I am who I am, not because of how fast I swam or performed — you always told me that as long as I didn’t drown in the pool during a race that I did great! (6). Family is a place that always has an open door, a comforting drink and unconditional love. (7). Sleep is essential and if I don’t sleep enough (like you), I will fall asleep in places that matter (like church!).
Happy Father’s Day everyone.