There are a lot.

Probably because I was, and still am, the most stubborn child in the family. Regardless, my Dad has taught many people valuable lessons to live by. I’m not going to write down every single one but I’ll share a few today (side note: I think my Dad should write a book which would more fully encompass the wisdom God has given him).

Lesson 1: Be a man of character

Cliche? I don’t think so!

“Do the right thing” would be cliche. But character is something that our culture speaks little of and the words that often define a man of character are simply not in our regular vocabulary. Words like diligence, discretion, meekness, and thoroughness aren’t things you hear every day but are words my Dad pounded into my head day after day.

A man’s character is an outward display of his heart.

Lesson 2: Ask for forgiveness

This might surprise some of you but my Dad isn’t perfect.

I know, I know what a shock! But when it comes to asking for forgiveness my Dad lead by example. He would make mistakes, but for nearly every mistake I can recall I can also recall a father who would come to me and ask forgiveness for the mistake he made.

I didn’t always have a great relationship with my Dad. But I believe his admittance of his mistakes was one thing that caused my heart to turn toward him.

A true leader humbles himself and admits his mistakes.

Lesson 3: Give your sons responsibility

This one actually bugs me!

Life was a lot easier when Dad would just tell me what to do. Even if I ignored his council, at least I knew what I should be doing.

A few weeks ago my Dad and I were discussing a decision I had to make and we were disagreeing on the correct course of action to take. We talked for quite a bit and then all of the sudden Dad had to go, so he said “Luv ya son but I have to run” and hung up.

I was actually troubled all night because this was the first time in a long time that we hadn’t come to a conclusion on what I was supposed to do. So a few days later I tried to bring the discussion back up. My Dad’s response was “Son it’s ok, we disagree but you know how I stand and now you have to make a decision”. WHAT?!?!?!?! ??How am I supposed to make a decision when Dad and I haven’t come to an agreement on what that decision is? This isn’t the first time he has done this, but it’s becoming more regular and I’m not sure if I like it. In the end it’s what I need. Dad has raised me to be accountable to the Lord and now he’s treating me like it.

You can’t tell your son he’s an adult if you still treat him like a child.

The lessons I’ve learned from Dad could fill this entire blog for a whole year but most of yall won’t want to read more than 500 words so I’m gonna end this here.

Love you Dad!