November 19, 2009 was the day my dad died. We weren't expecting it that soon and thought we would have more time to be with him and more time to sort some things out. Fortunately for dad, he died before he got really sick from his cancer and true to form, he left some things undone. So in tribute to my dad today, here are a few things I have learned from him:
1. Leave it to the last minute. If you are lucky, someone else will have to come along and deal with all that CRAP! (Thank you dad!)
2. Being late, really LATE makes sure that you will be noticed and remembered.
3. Marry someone who will clean up after you, raise your children for you, find things for you and give you the freedom to do exactly what you want to do and when you want to do it. (Thank you mom!)
4. Be very opinionated and if logic doesn't serve you well in the discussion, throw in irrelevant and extreme views that will leave people completely dumbfounded so they won't have anything left to say.
5. Say exactly what you are thinking out loud at all times to save energy. You won't have to remember what kind of a "spin" you put on things when you follow this one and if a few people don't talk to you again, oh well, less energy spent in trying to maintain too many relationships. Better yet, be oblivious to any offence you might have given and you can treat everyone as a friend.
Last but not least, the real lessons I learned:
1. Laugh easily with others and at yourself. Bring a sense of humour to lighten the load for everyone. Know how to tell a good story to put people at ease and help them enjoy the moments you share together.
2. Serve others and know how to be in communion with others wherever you go.
3. Put your best effort into everything you do.
4. Stand up for what you believe in that will make things better for your community, your country and the world. Make sure your voice and actions contribute to making the world a better place for all of creation.
5. LIVE life fully. LOVE freely. Be THANKFUL for all you have.
Thank you Dad. I love you and know that your love is with me still, guiding me in everything I do. Here's to you today!
