What I Learned From My Dad

First, let me say

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!

This is a day to remember

the man who gave us life,

probably raised us,

and definately made an impact.

My father gave me his

writing genes

and for that I will be

forever grateful.

Like so many other people I know,

I recently lost my dad.

He died last month due to complications

resulting from lung cancer.

Yes, he smoked for way too many years.

At times I get angry because he was

only in his mid-sixties and was taken

way to soon. So...

ONE - I learned from my father to take better

care of my health. I have my own daughter

and want to be around for her.

I took some time off from my diet after

my dad's death, but that is changing. Luckily,

I didn't gain weight. I also started walking this year

with friends. We are all feeling better.

TWO - I learned to tell the people who made an impact

on my life what they mean to me before it's too late.

In some cases, that may be easier said than done.

I will have to gather the courage to contact at least

one person from my past, but I will.

THREE - I learned to accept people for who they are.

My father lived his life his

way, whether you liked it or not -

whether I liked it or not.

I often referred to him as a modern day hermit.

I decided many years ago to accept him for who he was.

When I was young, I didn't accept people into my life

who had views or personalities

which were much different from my own.

Once I learned to accept them for who they are,

I found these people added to my life in

wonderful ways.

Some are huggers - nurturers -

who recharge your batteries

and make you smile when you see them.

Some have skills they are more than willing to share.

Some have knowledge which has opened a world of

possbility and led to interesting experiences.

Writers are unique individuals. Some of them are

flamboyant and some are more reserved

They are all creative. My life is much

richer for having these friends in my life.

This Father's Day,

I hope you think about

what you have learned from

your own father.

The lessons may good,

or perhaps not so good,

but they are lessons we are meant

to learn and grow from.