Your written words can be early Father’s Day gift
Iknow Father’s Day is still weeks away, but it’s important to think and plan ahead for that one day a year when we honor dads.
Usually, Dad gets a “functional” present, like a tie, a bottle of cologne or some-barbecue tools. He often receives a funny card, purchased the night before from the pickedover remains at the local drugstore. Then, as soon as the honorific Father’s
Day lunch is over, it’s back to business as usual. “Dad, can you help with ...?”
I’d like to change that. I think we could improve America — or at least our little corner of it — by honoring and thanking Dad in the weeks leading up to Father’s Day. Here’s my idea: Give your dad positive written feedback every day for a week or two before Father’s Day. Post your comments on Facebook (but make sure he sees or receives them). Write your comments on index cards. Mail or personally deliver them to him. Hide them in his car or around his house. And, if your father is no longer alive or is not involved in your life, do this for some other influential male figure in your life.
Not long ago, I asked my Facebook friends to post about the impact their dads had on them. Here’s a sampling of what they said — all good examples of what you could say to your dad.
Charlotte Ream Cooper — My father taught me determination, to focus on the positive, and to keep trying to become better at everything.
Mary Brown Boren — My daddy shaped me with his prayers and his faithful example of trusting God.
Randy L. Thurman — Dad shaped me by walking his talk. He had high standards and lived them.
Paula Meder — My father taught me at an early age to listen more than talk. His philosophy was simple: Don’t offer your opinion unless asked and that most things in life aren’t worth getting angry about.
Jimmy Goodman — Dad taught me to never accept something at face value. Always dig for the facts. Respect the person but verify the claims.
Edwina Trout — My father taught me perseverance. He worked hard to provide for his family. He taught me to be independent.
Ted Streuli — What Dad left behind can’t be probated or taxed or written on a deposit slip. He passed along the value of a strong work ethic. He bequeathed his personal code of conduct, the importance of honesty and self-respect, an unwavering belief in the power of perseverance, a desire for knowledge and a sense of pride. He left the knowledge that the only person we must satisfy is oneself. Most importantly, he passed along the confidence and skill to be self-reliant regardless of circumstance. I doubt I will leave my children a great deal of money. But I hope I am able to leave them a legacy that rivals the value of my own inheritance.
Now, think about how your dad (or some influential male figure) shaped you, and let him know. In writing. Daily. In the weeks leading up to Father’s Day. You might think you’re not “a writer,” but you can do this. Write what’s on your heart and what comes to mind. It need not be flowery or long. But it will be impactful.
Guaranteed, it will be better than a tie.