Lessons

I was blessed with both a father (dad) and a stepfather (Andy). They both died within a few months of each other in 2016. So many times I still think of them.

I learned some interesting lessons.

If someone loans you something, return it promptly in as good or if not better condition.

A friend for life is one of the most valuable things you can have. Sometimes that means forgiving friends. And sometimes it means a friend forgiving you. You can still be friends, even if you don’t see eye to eye.

I learned the beauty of nature and how to hunt and to appreciate camping.

I learned it’s okay to be uncomfortable.

A good cup of coffee is a blessing.

The mountains are evidence of a God who has blessed us.

The quiet of a Kansas wheat field can reach into our soul, allowing us to listen for God.

It is worth the effort to help others on life’s journey. Someone has helped you, whether you realize it or not.

It’s alright to lead; and it’s alright to follow. Just be sure it’s a path you want to be on.

A good gut check is, “What would your grandfather do?”

One of the best things you can do for your children is to listen to them with all your focus, heart and mind. The second is being there – for them; be at their events; be there when they’re happy; be there when they’re sad. Be there when they succeed as well as when they fail. Third, you don’t have to have all the answers.

It is the same with friends – listen, be there, and you don’t have to have all the answers.

Enjoy the moment, no matter what preceded it.

It is okay to be quiet.

I was blessed with two great fathers. If your father is still with you, I hope you will reach out to him. If your father taught you valuable lessons, pass them on.