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Day 13 Listen to Your Old Man |
If your dad is like most dads, he can get going when he starts up on an old story.
It's probably a lot like when his dad used to tell stories. And his father before him. It's what men of a certain age do—impart wisdom and guidance from lessons learned the hard way. You might have (oh, let's be honest ... you have definitely) heard these stories before. After all, the old guy only has so many tales in his hat. But when he tells you, for the umpteenth time, about that time he and his buddy drove his old pickup truck from the Grand Canyon to the Gulf of Mexico, don't roll your eyes or sigh. Don't tell him that you've heard this one before. He's trying for a little bit of immortality by passing along the story to you. He's also trying to teach you a little something. And there's plenty we can learn from the older men in our life. So get the man a drink, pull up a chair and listen. Herewith, ten lessons we've learned from our fathers over the years.
1
When you borrow something—like a tool from your father's toolbox—put it back in the same or better condition than you found it.
2
There's no harm in getting lost and discovering something new. But there's no shame in asking for directions either.
3
Learning to live without something builds character.
4
You can be strong without being aggressive.
5
When you end up with a messy knot in your fishing line, cut your losses (and your line) and retie your lure. Don't waste your time worrying about it because that's time you never get back.
6
Take risks. Fall, fumble or crash and burn if necessary. Just remember to get up afterwards.
7
You've got the time to hold the door for other people.
8
Tell the truth. It's always the right thing because it's true, and this way you don't have to remember as much.
9
You don't have to change your own tire. But you need to know how to do it for yourself (or others).
10
You don't have to be the best. But you should show up and do your best.
Wise Words
“
A father has to be a provider, a teacher, a role model, but most importantly, a distant authority figure who can never be pleased. Otherwise, how will children ever understand the concept of God?"
- Stephen Colbert
