Lessons from fathers are among the best

Readers share wisdom gleaned from their dads

Lessons from our parents stay with us for life. My father taught me to be independent, to forever ask “why” and to never judge others. He regularly challenged me to do more, and to achieve more, while always encouraging my curiosity and my love of reading. He also encouraged my siblings and I to embrace the quirky in life, letting us know that it was OK to have fun and to be different.

This week on the Yuma Sun’s social media streams, I asked readers “What lessons did you learn from your father?” The answers were pretty amazing. Kate Hazen wrote, “My dad’s last words, that still echo in my heart, were “Get out there and live!” And we do!”

“My father always taught me to push towards my goals for the future no matter how big or small and never allow others to make you believe that they are unreachable ...showed me that no matter how hard work is or how tired always take the time for your kids,” commented Victoria Harris.

Lauri Flores said that her father taught her the value of an education, and inspired a love for books and travel. “He taught me to live not just exist and to enjoy this life to the fullest with a smile on my face,” Flores wrote.

“My dad taught me how to paint, lay tile, drive and how to be independent,” commented Suzanne M Lasich.

And Jacky Jones noted, “My dad taught me hard work pays off, eventually. My dad has always been hard working and I can only hope to follow in his footsteps.”

The value of hard work and honesty was a common theme, as Natalie Madron Rivera shared, “Work hard, be honest. He was a quiet man but respected. Be dependable and true to your word.”

Vianey Galvan, noted “My father taught me to think before speaking.”

And Mary JoAnn Ladd Fish commented, “One of the sayings my Dad always said was “the best sense a person can have is COMMON sense! In short supply these days! Thanks Dad, you were right. Miss you.”

To the fathers, the step-fathers, the stand-in fathers, the father-in-laws and the grandfathers, thanks for all of the valuable lessons that you’ve passed on to your loved ones. Happy Father’s Day!

DO YOU AGREE WITH THIS OR NOT?