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Wisdom
Today would have been my father’s birthday. It is on days like these when we reflect on those we have loved and lost. And perhaps wished we had listened to a bit more often. Our relationship was often complicated, but valuable, as I think are most of our relationships with our parents.
As I think back on the many things I learned, I have unearthed some pearls of wisdom to share:
- Be responsible – Say what you mean and do what you say; if you make a promise, keep it; if you start something finish it.
- Always do your best – Anything worth doing is worth doing right, work hard and take pride in your accomplishments.
- You are your best judge – Don’t worry so much about what other people think of you; do what you think is right, live how you want – never mind keeping up with the Joneses.
- Family first – Your spouse and children are always your top priority; not work (although you must provide for them), not friends or relatives. The rest of the world matters, but is a distant second to family.
- Don’t waste time – Time is precious and too brief; work efficiently and take time for fun; talk with your loved ones, play with your grandkids, have coffee with friends, enjoy your pets and take pleasure in nature whenever possible.
Do you have an lessons you’d like to share? What did you learn from your parents that has been valuable advice?
Question everything, move forward, enjoy the journey.
