What did you learn from Dad?
My father taught me many things, including some of those indispensable skills of modern womanhood such as, how to fix a running toilet, tie a decent knot and call AAA when your tire goes flat. He introduced me to the wonderful world of old Hollywood and filled my head with classic film trivia. His love of photography inspired my own; likewise his belief that brussel sprouts are not food.
Of course, we didn’t always see eye to eye. He didn’t understand why I was so eager to leave the small town where he had lived almost his entire life. I couldn’t comprehend his fondness for CB slang and listening to police scanners. But even when we disagreed (which was often during my snotty teenage years), I recognized him as one of the wisest and most honorable men that I’ve had the privilege to know. Much of what I learned from him he never even had to say in words. I only had to follow his example.
We learn a lot from our fathers. Whether he is present or absent, the best role model or one who is excellent at showing us exactly what not to do, fathers have a lot of influence on our lives. I was very lucky to have one worth emulating and with advice worth hearing, even if I didn’t always listen. But sometimes you don’t realize that these parental lessons have stuck until years later when you still hear that voice in your head reminding you to do what’s right (and keep your elbows off the table). I will be forever thankful for that voice. And yes, Dad, I’m watching out for speed traps.
What did you learn from your father that you’re grateful for today? Share your appreciation in your Thankfulfor posts! Don’t forget that we’ll be creating a free ebook using posts collected from the site. If you like, you can also submit a link to a family photo to be included in the ebook.
Image courtesy of Fran Burroughs
Tori is a student intern who will be working with the Thankfulfor team over the summer. She is a senior at the Savannah College of Art and Design, where she is studying graphic design.
