Teaching, talking, sharing
Our imperfect fathers do the best they can and shape who we become, our potential to develop as individuals. They challenge us, love us, and impact our souls forever.
There’s great truth in this statement by Margaret Truman:
“It’s only when you grow up and step back from him—or leave him for your own home—it’s only then that you can measure his greatness and fully appreciate it.”
Most families have a list of “Dad-isms” that cause a lot of laughter, groaning and shaking of heads. My favorite its “Leave things better than you found them.” Applies to pretty much every area of life. What famous dad quotes live on in your family?
Memory List for my Dad
Adventurous—shared love for travel
Taught me to see beauty in nature –and took me places to find it
Said, “You can do it” at crucial times
Discussed good books, new ideas
Lifelong learner
Battered Hats and scuffed boots
Singing “Bye, Bye Miss American Pie” at the top of our lungs together
Backpacking and fishing trips
Teaching me how to catch a trout—and get it ready to eat
Fried potatoes in a cast iron skillet—elk camp in the mountains
Riding out of the mountains by moonlight on horseback. Seeing my dad’s battered cowboy hat and lanky frame ahead of me on the trail. Knowing I just had to follow him and I’d be okay.(this I will never forget)
Teaching me to drive the truck picking up hay in the field
The way his eyes crinkle up at a good joke
Trying to teach me to back up a vehicle—still not too good at this Popper Tops
Teaching me to ride the motorcycle—all good till I popped a wheelie (still one of my best memories)
Share a memory list with your dad tomorrow. If he’s no longer here, make it anyway and share it with your own kids. And if you’re a dad—count yourself blessed and make a memory with your kids—whether they’re babies or adults. It will stay with you both a lifetime.