My father was a significant influence in my life. He supported me from my birth through my journey into adulthood and beyond, encouraging me to chase my dreams. He taught me the importance of hard work, integrity, and kindness, shaping who I am today. His faith in my abilities gave me the confidence to tackle challenges and aim for success, knowing I had a reliable foundation. His presence offered comfort and instilled a deep appreciation for family that I still hold dear.
He took me fishing on bright summer mornings, enjoyable trips to the mountains where we would hike and explore nature, and exciting ball games that fostered a love for sports. He patiently taught me how to drive and repair cars, sharing stories and skills that connected us. He was always there, a steadfast presence in my life, guiding me through both challenges and triumphs. Dad loved my mother, and his affection extended to Grandma, my mother’s mother, who lived with us until I was fifteen. This arrangement was not just about family; it was a lesson in love, respect, and the importance of multi-generational bonds. Living with Grandma enriched our household, providing wisdom and warmth, which helped shape the family dynamics and instilled values that I would carry with me throughout my life.
Sure, he wasn’t perfect. There were rare moments where his underlying temper came out of hiding and showed its ugly face, often catching those around him off guard, leaving them unsure of how to react. He was not one of the best people persons; social interactions often felt like walking on eggshells, as he struggled to read the emotions of others and respond appropriately. I was told that he was a mid-life baby, born ten years after his brother and sister, which seemed to set him apart from the very beginning. Growing up on a farm, many years without siblings to share in the joys and challenges of childhood, I speculate that this isolation is one of the primary reasons he didn’t learn people skills. Instead of developing bonds and understanding the nuances of friendships and relationships, he became accustomed to solitude, finding comfort in the routine of farm life rather than the chaos of family dynamics, which ultimately shaped his worldview and interactions with others.
My dad has greatly influenced who I am today, and I loved him for his constant support and guidance. His teachings have shaped my values, and I treasure the memories we created together. Whether through laughter or hard lessons, he has always been my anchor, offering wisdom and encouragement that helped me move forward.
TomT2.0 