Ten Things He Taught Me

Father's day is Sunday. Since this weekend looms as one of those kinds of weekends where I will wake up Monday and say, "Where the heck did it go??" I want to share the ten things I learned from my Daddy in honor of Father's Day.

10. Don't believe everything. When the doctor tells you that you have six months to live, don't believe him. When the doctor dies, go to his funeral and send flowers. Do this for at least 25 years.

9. Work hard. If a person is paying you $5 an hour, still work as though you are earning $25 an hour. Soon, you will.

8. Love. Never tell your children you love them, but show them everyday by asking their Mother to call and make sure they are okay or to give the latest weather report.

7. Stick with it. When one way doesn't work, stand back, say a few choice words, and then try another way. Chances are there is more than one way to do something.

6. Use a hammer. When repairing something, a hammer will always work. Even if you smash it to little bits, it is taken care of and out of the way.

5. Own a tractor. On a tractor one cannot hear any complaining, whining, or useless talking. And, when the woman is crying over the fact that there are still tomatoes in the garden, you can take your tractor and plow and turn them over. Problem solved and no hammer needed.

4. Make a list. When the above mentioned wife says, "You need to do..." the best response is, "It is on the list." Somehow that makes it appear that you are actually going to do it.

3. Eat frequently. You never know when you might get another chance. I think that says it all.

2. Take a nap. Whenever you sit down, take the time to snooze for five minutes or ten or fifteen...

1. Love life. Laugh. Love. Believe. Enjoy. No matter what happens, philosophically remind everyone nearby that things work out as they should. And believe it! There is no use in saying, "If only..."

My Daddy is one remarkable man. He has created a very full and successful life from simple beginnings to great success -- not just monetary success, but accomplishments as well. My earliest memories of him are of his very long legs (he has a 36" in seam) stretching to nearly the sky as he bent down to pick me up to put me on the top of the refrigerator so I would be out of the way as he and Mother cooked dinner. It was the only time in my life I could see the top of his head.

He took us fishing, hunting, gardening, and to church. He spanked us when we needed it and loved us after he did. He has high standards, but they are no higher for us than for himself. I am very proud of my Daddy.

Happy father's day, George!