Monday, June 13, 2011

Things I Learned From My Father

The photo you see above is of my mother and father.

I have no idea when this was taken because I wasn’t even born yet, but my parents look to be about in their early 30’s at the time.

Weren’t they a handsome couple?

My father was one of those guys who everyone loved to be around because he was vivacious, a great story-teller, and would never say anything negative about anyone.

He believed that if you couldn’t say anything nice about anyone, don’t say it.

My father was an incredible business man because he never approached his occupation as a job. Everyday, he went to his office with a smile on his face and whistle on his lips, and a sincere desire to service his clients with integrity and humor.

He was one of the most amazing salesman because he had a soft and gentle way of offering his goods and then standing back; allowing his clients to make their own decision on whether they wanted to purchase or not. No pressure. Nine times out of ten, his clients fell in love with him, therefore they WANTED to purchase from him.

My father was successful because he was honest. And people could feel that.

If you ever wanted to make my father mad, LIE to him. He couldn’t tolerate being lied to. He would much rather his kids tell him the truth than lie about something because he respected that. In fact, if we told him the truth, we never got punished. But if we did….HEAVEN HELP US.

My father was a total optimist. He always believed that things would work out for the best.

My father was a very generous and loyal man, giving aid to anyone in need. He had a very soft, child-like heart that unfortunately got crushed many times because he believed that all people were sincere when they needed help, but discovered that even family members could be good bullshit artists. He finally learned this lesson much later in his life; being very disappointed in himself for not realizing it sooner.

But you see, he always gave unconditonally and with love. So they are the ones now living with regret; disappointed in themselves.

Yes, I’ve learned a lot from my father. Things that I’m still learning.

I’ve learned that in order to be successful in business, I must serve with integrity.

I’ve learned to be optimistic; knowing that things will always work out for the best.

I’ve learned that if I can’t say anything nice about anyone, don’t say it.

(um…that‘s one I‘m not very good at)

I’ve learned that honesty is the best policy.

And I’ve learned that if I give to someone and they bullshit me…well then, the shit only comes back and lands in their face.

So thank you, Dad. You taught me a lot.

You were a great father. And a great muse.

I love you, Daddy-O!

Happy Father’s Day to all you wonderful men out there. Please know how important you are in your children’s lives. And how you touch them in ways they will remember with love. Always!



Note: This will be my one and only post this week because I’ll be extremely busy at work - UGH! After today, I won’t be online much, so please forgive me. I will see all you ladies and gents next Monday. Have a great week! X