The Gift of Lessons

"One father is more than a hundred schoolmasters."
~ 17th Century English Proverb

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Father’s day is soon to be here and this composition is a tribute to my father.

The English Proverb, “One father is more than a hundred schoolmasters” speaks volumes. The lessons that a father teaches his children become lifelong lessons; some good, some bad; some intentional, some unintentional; some by discourse, some by observation. It’s these lessons that his children will use in formulating their paradigm of values. Unlike a schoolmaster, children have an strong emotional connection with their father. Hence, the lessons learned from a father through what he says, does, and feels, have far more of an impact on a child than the wisest of all schoolmasters.

To my dad, I say a heartfelt thank you for the following lessons:

Thanks for teaching me how to be a Christian.
Thanks for teaching me how to be a father.
Thanks for teaching me how to be husband.
Thanks for teaching me how to be a sibling.
Thanks for teaching me how to be a friend.
Thanks for teaching me how to be an employee.
Thanks for teaching me how to be an athlete.
Thanks for teaching me how to be a coach.

Thanks for teaching me the value in honesty.
Thanks for teaching me the benefits of humility.
Thanks for teaching me the significance of a strong worth ethic.
Thanks for teaching me the value in giving.
Thanks for teaching me the worth in kindness.

Thanks for teaching me about honor and loyalty.
Thanks for teaching me about confidence and self-respect.
Thanks for teaching me about determination and discipline.
Thanks for teaching me about sacrifice and perseverance.

Most of all, thank you for always being there for me!

A lesson is a gift! And so, I’ve been blessed abundantly. The lessons from my father are gifts of character. Unlike material gifts, which I've received far more from my father than I've deserved, the lessons my father have taught me can never be broken, destroyed or taken away from me. The lessons are mine for good. It’s now up to me to make the best use of the lessons my father has given to me.

Perhaps the greatest tribute I can give to my dad is a quote from an unknown author. The quote says, “The greatest gift I ever had came from God; I call him Dad!

Happy Father’s Day Dad!

To all you father’s, enjoy your special day!

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It’s your life; Live it, Love it & Celebrate it!
MJD