This is a bitter sweet weekend for me … it is the first Father’s Day without my Dad.
For years I have lived far from my parents home and I rarely spent Father’s Day with my Dad. Yet, we always connected, just a year ago, I could still call, laugh, write, email and get advice from my Dad whenever I needed it and somethings when he just wanted to offer it.
My Dad would tell you I didn’t always follow his advice or agree with it. I drove him crazy and sometimes he drove me crazy too. Today, I wish he was here to give me advice and a hug. He was wise and taught me many things.
One of the many lessons was on networking and building relationships. My Dad would not call it that or might not even agree he was a master networker, but he was. He understood the importance of relationships, and built relationships wherever he lived, traveled, and visited. He served others sometimes just by listening.
Our lives are connected in interesting ways and I do believe relationships are formed for a specific reason. We have the opportunity to build relationships every day, some professional, others personal or casual, some are short term others long term. Each relationship is unique and in my view, are all important – why because relationships are about people. I know nothing more important than people and the interactions that you have with people. There are perfect relationships and imperfect ones!
We build relationships in many ways and in many places. On the highway, or in our communities, some relationships never exchange words, only smiles such as those shared on the way to the office, store, elevator, or train.
My Dad was not direct like I am, on occasion he offered tough love, but not daily as I am known for, his style and manner was different. He was great at starting a conversation anywhere, with anyone – as a kid that drove me crazy – but as I grew up I learned the value of his skill in this area.
Like me (maybe I learned that from him too), sometimes he did not get to the point quickly. That drives others nuts, I know and he did too. His patience with others in a conversation was an interesting gift. There were the things he learned because he was patience and listened in a unique manner.
May all fathers have a wonderful weekend, be blessed by the gifts you share with your children, families; friends and all those you connect and interact with daily.
If you are like me and without your father this weekend, may you be blessed by a memory and the many other wonderful relationships you have.
no comment until now