Anyone can be a father, but it takes someone special to be a Dad. I was one of those lucky kids, I had a Dad. My Dad also became one of my best friends. I was also very lucky to work with him for several years. My Dad was the co-owner of an IGA Grocery Store. He was the meat-cutter and I wrapped the meat for him. I worked with him from the time I was 14 until 21. Most people never get this type of experience to spend so much time with a parent. Why was it so special? We had a lot of time to talk while we worked. I trusted him with all of the secrets I held in my heart. He gave me advice as I struggled through my teen years and young adulthood.
Some of the things that we discussed were:
-boys/dating
-Religion
-Showing empathy to others.
-Standing up for the underdogs in life.
-Being honest in every situation.
-Sticking to your word
-Giving your best while at work
-Humor makes life easier.
-Regardless how hard life is, be thankful for what you have.
I will miss my Dad so much! He truly was one of my best friends. He always encouraged me in all situations. In fact, the night before he passed away, I was able to visit him in the hospital. I almost didn't go up to the hospital that night because I was so tired. I am so glad that I followed my instincts. My son and daughter had begged me to take them so they could visit their Grandpa. My kids and I went up and had a good visit with my Dad. Right before I left, my Dad reached for my hands. He looked at me and said, "I just know that everything will work out for you. Don't give up". As I kissed him goodbye that night, I did not realize that would be the last time I looked into his brown eyes and would receive words of wisdom from him. I will always love him.
Thank you for sharing. What a wonderful tribute to your dad. :)
ReplyDeleteMy mom has passed away, but I do still have my dad around and I know what you mean. I adore him and cherish every moment we have together. He's getting old and I can't help but think about the time when he's no longer around. It makes me sad. I should take advantage of being around him more.
ReplyDeleteYou wrote a lovely tribute to your relationship with your dad. I could feel the love you had for each other. Beautiful post!
ReplyDeleteGreat Post!! Love your tribute to your dad. Well said....
ReplyDeletehelp for single Dads
this post is so touching. it's funny how people of a different generation worked all the time without complaining. Excellent post.
ReplyDeleteThe one thing that strikes me as I peruse various blogs is that they are so focused on what may happen in the future.
ReplyDeleteNot that goals are a bad thing.
But you just gave a poignant description of a moment that almost did not happen (had you chosen not to visit the hospital) that you will be able to remeber forever.
Larry
The one thing that strikes me as I peruse various blogs is that they are so focused on what may happen in the future.
ReplyDeleteNot that goals are a bad thing.
But you just gave a poignant description of a moment that almost did not happen (had you chosen not to visit the hospital) that you will be able to remeber forever.
Larry
Not sure why my comment posted twice...maybe there's an echo in here?
ReplyDeleteLove you, Sheila.
ReplyDeleteWhat a sweet and treasured connection!
ReplyDeleteThis is a wonderful post, and I'm really glad I came over to check out what you're doing here. It's obvious that your Dad influenced you greatly, since you're doing such an awesome job. It sounds like he was a wonderful person and a great Dad. Thank you for sharing him with us.
ReplyDelete