Lessons from Dad

Life lessons from one of the best that ever walked this earth.

Last weekend marked a somber yet profound moment as we bid farewell to my father. The memorial service and celebration of his life took place in our cherished hometown of Hershey, Pennsylvania. Reflecting on the legacy he leaves behind, I'm compelled to share ten invaluable lessons that this poignant weekend has brought to the forefront of my mind.

Lesson 1: "The only person that can ruin your day is you." My father's unyielding positivity was a guiding light. Regardless of the circumstances, he unfailingly unearthed the silver lining. He exemplified the notion that no external force could rob him of his joy.

Lesson 2: "Don't sweat the small stuff and it's all small stuff." A staunch advocate of focusing on the big picture, my father emphasized the folly of fixating on trivial matters. Life's imperfections were not a source of distress but rather an opportunity to appreciate the larger blessings we're granted.

Lesson 3: "Never compromise on your personal integrity." With an unwavering commitment to honesty, my father's words were a beacon of candor. He was a straight-shooting individual who held steadfast to his principles, never allowing compromise to taint his ethical compass.

Lesson 4: "Relationships matter." A master in cultivating genuine connections, my father's likability was a testament to his belief in the goodness of humanity. While disagreements were natural, respect for him was universal due to the authentic bonds he forged.

Lesson 5: "The key to happiness is through gratitude." Material possessions held no allure for my father. Instead, his heart overflowed with gratitude for life's simple treasures - family, friends, and the gift of existence. He found contentment in the intangible, reminding us that true happiness lies within appreciation.

Lesson 6: "The way to be successful in life is to do the best possible job at whatever it is you are doing." My father's commitment to excellence was unwavering. His pursuit of perfection extended to every facet of life, from business endeavors to family interactions. He demonstrated that success blossoms from unrelenting effort.

Lesson 7: "Live every day." My father's zest for life was infectious. He seized each day as an opportunity to thrive, urging us to cherish every moment with loved ones. This lesson resonates deeply, underscoring the unpredictability of our time on earth.

Lesson 8: "Help others." A beacon of mentorship and altruism, my father embodied the essence of guiding others. His life was a testament to the immeasurable impact we can make by extending a helping hand to those in need.

Lesson 9: "Laugh a lot." Endowed with an unparalleled sense of humor, my father's laughter was contagious. Even amid solemn occasions, he had a knack for weaving laughter into the tapestry of life, ensuring that joy remained a constant presence.

Lesson 10: "Be kind to others." Compassion was the cornerstone of my father's interactions. He advocated for treating others with kindness, cognizant that each individual's struggles remain hidden beneath the surface. His legacy serves as a reminder that a small act of kindness can change the trajectory of someone's day.

As we bid farewell to my father, I find solace in the enduring wisdom he leaves behind. Through these lessons, his impact continues to reverberate, a testament to a life well-lived and a legacy that will forever guide us.