Our dad’s teach us a lot, even if they may not have been around. This is a series about the most important lessons your dad taught you.
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Call For Submissions!
Here in the dad’s and families section, we take pride in the idea of being a parent. It’s not something we have to do, it’s something we are honored to do. I know growing up my dad taught me a lot. He taught me how to ride a bike, how to play pool, how to throw a baseball. He also taught me how to grow up quicker than most kids. He didn’t teach me this on purpose, but his actions forced my hand.
There were many nights when my father was out late because he’d been getting high with his friends. There were other nights when he didn’t come home at all–sometimes for 24 or 36 hours. Those times he had tried something stronger than a little weed. Something so strong he was too scared to come home. I’m thankful for these memories.
I’m not thankful for them because I’m glad my father tried a bunch of drugs, I’m thankful for them because they are, and I can’t forget them. I have no choice but to embrace these lessons because I learned them and they have made me the man that I am.
They have made me the father I am.
I want this series to be about you and the lessons you’ve learned from your father. I’ll give you a little push.
What is the first memory you have of your father teaching you something?
Really dig deep and think back to the first thing you learned from your father. Maybe it was when you were four, maybe you were twenty-four. Either way. Let me have it.
How often do you find yourself doing something for or with your kids that your dad did with you or for you?
I find myself doing this a lot. I remember my dad apologizing to me quite often. I want my kids to always know I’m willing to admit a mistake.
What do you want your kids to remember or know about your dad?
I hope they remember my father as a man with a kind heart and a person always willing to share his emotions and feelings with other people.
Send all entries to Adam Crawford at accraw3 (at) gmail (dot) com.
I can’t wait to read all your life lessons!
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Photo credit: Flickr/Ted Kerwin
