Life Lessons From Mon Papa

Another Father's Day has come and gone. I got my dad the usual - something for his garden, something for his birds and a card. I also took something for myself - 5 minutes to think of the example he set for me. Once I started, it took a good deal longer than 5 minutes, but here are some highlights.

Share – I remember one day after school hanging out with my best friend Mark. We were goofing around doing who knows what when my mom called me for dinner. As we were walking by my house I saw my dad in the front yard and asked him if Mark could stay for dinner. You know how kids do, ask for things while others are standing about in an effort to get their parents to say “yes”. My dad’s response was “well we don’t have much, but there is always enough to go around”.

Be proud, no matter what – Growing up I was (and still am) fairly competitive. Especially when it came to Monopoly. Every year we rented a cottage with some family and board games were our nightly ritual. One particular evening I was cleaning up, everything from Marvin Gardens to Boardwalk was mine, and as my dad walked by I told him that if I did “this well in real life” he would be so proud of me. He looked at me and said he would be proud of me no matter what.

It’s better to give, than to receive – A tireless volunteer, my dad saw my siblings and I through Cubs and Scouts, t-ball and swimming (the extent of my interest in organized sports). My brother and sister had more encompassing sporting interests and he drove, coached and cheered them through hockey, ringette, lacrosse, volleyball, basketball, golf and skiing. He also found time to coach various teams at his school, held numerous positions within the church, volunteers and canvasses for the Cancer Society and Red Cross. The man can do it all.

Happy Father’s Day to the best one out there!