I am truly blessed to have my 96 year old Dad still teaching
me life’s lessons.
Dad taught me a strong belief in God. As long as I can remember I was in church
every Sunday morning. Up until just a
few months ago when Dad finally gave up driving he attended a men’s prayer
meeting every Monday morning at 6am at a local restaurant. He attended this prayer breakfast for 50+
years. My children, my marriage, and
multiple other facets of my life have been prayed for by these men. My father is currently the oldest living
member of the United Methodist Church
in Roswell , NM .
Meaning not only is he the oldest in age but he has been a member there
longer than any other living person.
Dad taught me to love and appreciate the country we live
in. My dad served in the Navy during
World War II. He also was active in
politics while I was growing up. Even
though as an adult I have decided to support a different political party, I
don’t take having the right to vote lightly.
It is a great responsibility that few other countries allow their citizens
to have.
Dad taught me financial responsibility. To this day Dad has never used credit except
for buying a home. All his cars,
appliances, etc. were paid for in cash. And
if the cash was not available we did not have it. He also have saved and invested his
money. This being the nest egg my
parents are living off of now.
Dad taught me the importance of the institution of
marriage. He and my mom have been
married 65 years, soon to be 66 years on August 31st. And they have
had their challenges during those 65 years of marriage but have remained loyal
and faithful to each other.
Dad taught me a strong work ethic. Dad owned his own real estate business and
gave up many weekends while I was young to be working at open houses to provide
for our family. I never truly
appreciated how hard he worked until I became a single parent and was the sole
provider for my children.
Dad taught me the importance of education. Dad taught at the local college for
years. Both my parents have college
degrees and always encouraged me scholastically. I know that is one reason why as a grown
adult I returned to college and acquired three degrees.
Dad taught me the importance of words. Throughout my life I can remember my father
saying, “If you can’t say anything nice, then don’t say it at all”. My dad has lived by those words and today is
known for his positive attitude toward life and his kindness to others.
These are just a few of the many things my Dad has taught me
over the years. And I am still being
taught today. I have not always learned
these lessons in a timely fashion and have struggled in my life because of my
lack of learning. But my Dad has always
taught them to me by his example.
I love you Dad.
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