My dad will probably never see this post, but there was never a better father born to men than my father. He taught me lessons I continue to cherish, and if, by some miracle, I can teach a small fraction of those lessons to my children, then I may be able to do right by him:
-- Love your wife. Let your kids see that.
-- Marriage and family is a choice. It's hard, but it's your choice. Choose it.
-- Respect womanhood. Never engage in any activities that belittle, demean, hurt or cause you to lose respect for women or yourself.
-- You have a duty to provide for yourself and your family. And as you do, take care of your fellow man to the best extent possible.
-- Serve others. Opportunities are fleeting, so seize them.
-- Play. Let your children know you love playing with them.
-- Pray. Let your children know you love praying with them.
-- Go to church every Sunday. Bring your children. Love God. Let your children see you need God. Let them see you are a man of faith; a man who is humble enough to accept his weakness and admit his mistakes.
-- Apologize to your children. Apologize to your wife in front of your children. Apologize to her in private.
-- Fish, hunt, and enjoy nature. More importantly, share that with your children.
-- A citizen has responsibilities, not just rights. Freedom comes with two price tags--one paid for in blood, the other paid for in consequences.
-- Citizens have a duty to serve in their communities and serve their nation.
-- Vote.
-- If you've been blessed in life, find was to share those blessings.
-- Humor is not quite a panacea, but it usually IS good for what ails you.
-- Hugs are fleeting, free, and fun.
-- Your children will never be younger tomorrow then they are today. Love them. Cherish every moment. They won't come back.
