Lessons Dad Taught Me

My dad turns 81 tomorrow. He still swims 3+ miles a day. He still inspires me.

Dad, together with my mom, molded my character. He instilled a strong work ethic, creativity, and an insatiable thirst for knowledge. He shared nuggets of wisdom through phrases he repeated throughout his life. Not all the nuggets originated with him, but they shaped his (and now my) life.

I would like to share a few with you. I hope you find them as helpful as I have.

"Man is that he might have joy" gave me purpose. I seek joy, not mere transitory happiness, in every aspect of life. I recognize that the trials and tribulations in life help me appreciate the joy more.

"He that does not learn from the past is doomed to repeat it" guided me to evaluate my efforts and the efforts of others to learn how to do it better next time. I avoid many pitfalls by observing how others fell into them or avoided them.

"He that must be compelled in all things, the same is a slothful and not a wise steward" instilled initiative. I do not wait to think, to ponder, or to act. I observe, analyze, and act within my stewardship to try and do the best I can.

"The guilty man fleeth when no man pursueth" encouraged me to act honorably, to keep my conscience clear, and to beware of people who "protest too much".

My dad gave me a wonderful inheritance. His principles, learned through repetition and example, inspire me to be a better person, a better husband and father, and a better professional. I hope my sharing them once helps you as much.

Happy Birthday, Dad...and thanks