My dad is a visionary leader, a droll raconteur, and a
sentimental slob who loves his kids and grandkids and chortles like a hopped-up
Santa at his own jokes. He’s the best and I love him.
In tribute to him and fathers around the world this Father’s
Day season, I bring you some of his parenting wisdom.
Upon the whining of his kids at the prospect of Yet Another
Cultural Learning Opportunity:
“You know, it’s my job
as the parent to present you with educational experiences and it’s your job as
the child to pretend not to like it.”
His take on the Serenity prayer:
“If you’re happy, I’m
ecstatic.”
On being a tourist:
“Always leave
something left unexplored so you have a reason to come back.”
Career Advice Part One:
“If you write a page a
day, in a year, you’ll have written a book.”
Career Advice Part Two:
“If you wake up in the
morning and you’re not at least a little bit excited about going to work, then
quit. Life’s too short to be unhappy with your job.”
Later this summer, my dad and I will head out on a short vacation
together, a little father-daughter time to hang out, and explore, and crack
each other up, and be serious. We will eat good food and drink good wine and we
might remember to take pictures of all the
venues we visit. We’ll grin at odd moments and think how lucky we are to enjoy
each other as adults and it won’t even cross my mind to pretend not to like it,
cuz it will be awesome.
How about you? Has your dad gifted you with any sage advice
that helps you navigate life?
