Our fathers definitely deserve at least a day of us celebrating everything they do for us! From cheering us up when we are sad to rooting for us through all of life’s adventures, fathers make everything a little bit better. My dad is no exception. He’s been there for me every step of the way, and I can always count on him for anything, including a good belly laugh.
Over the years, not only have I’ve always leaned on my dad for love and support, but he’s also been there to teach me a thing or two. Thanks to my dad, I’ve learned some pretty useful skills, like how to use a screwdriver and how to shoot a decent free throw, and I use what I’ve learned from him every day. I’m so grateful for everything my dad has shared with me, so in honor of Father’s Day, I’m sharing just a few of the amazing life lessons he’s gifted me.
You are never wrong to help others.
One thing my dad taught me, through both his words and his actions, is that we should always strive to do the right thing and to lend a helping hand. He’s always the one to stop on the side of the road when someone has car trouble or to offer some money to a homeless person looking for their next meal. My dad’s unwavering willingnesses to do what’s right exists even when it’s inconvenient for him. Helping out a family member all day on Saturday, no problem for dad! Waking up on a hot summer morning to build a deserving family a home in the blistering heat, my dad is there! Whenever I’m questioning what to do and if I should help, I think of my dad and how he would already be offering to lend a hand. He’s my north star when it comes to doing the right thing. From him, I’ve learned that helping others is easier than we think, and it’s always worth it.
Take time to celebrate all your wins, even the small ones.
My dad is one of the first people I call when I have exciting news to share. No matter the size of the win, he always tells me to go celebrate. I remember asking about it one time and giving him a hard time about always telling me to celebrate my wins. My dad explained that our successes, no matter the size of them are worth celebrating and that I need to acknowledge all my hard work. It’s stuck with me- we spend so much time chasing down success, and we often don’t stop to appreciate all of our efforts. I’m grateful for a father who always emphasizes the need to celebrate our wins because he’s taught me to value all the time and energy I invest in everything I do.
There’s always room for growth.
Even in his fifties, my dad always reminds me that he doesn’t have life figured out and that he’s continually learning new things about himself and those around him. It’s so helpful to hear him talk about the challenges he faces and the mistakes he makes because it shows me that there’s no expectation that we are supposed to have it all figured out at a certain age. He teaches me that there’s always room to continue to grow, and perfection is not what we are striving to achieve. When I’m frustrated with myself for making a mistake or when I thought I had something figured out and learn I was wrong, I think of what my dad. He’s taught me that there’s always more room for growth and it’s something we should be doing more of every day.
It would take days for me to write about everything I’ve learned from my dad, but these life lessons above provide a little window into all the support and insight he offers. He’s continually sharing his wisdom with all of us, and it helps us be better versions of ourselves. I encourage you to take some time to think about all the great things you’ve learned from your dad. Their knowledge and experience is something to be treasured. Thanks, Dad!