My father is the kind of man who will quietly do something special for you, and surprise you with it when you least expect it. He’s been that way all my life.
A few years ago, my dad handed me a massive binder. It weighed several pounds and looked like a wedding album.
When I opened it, the first thing I saw was a photo of my hand on the day I was born.
On the opposite page, right beside the photo, I saw a little bracelet taped onto the page. It was the original hospital bracelet I wore as a newborn.
That was the first page of an album filled with hundreds of photos, memories, and accomplishments — from the day I took my first breath, all the way into my 30s.
My father had been quietly collecting things and adding them to this “life album” throughout my entire life…
And I had no clue he was doing it until he presented me with the album just a few years ago.
I often share how my initial exposure to personal development was through books.
But the more I think about it, the more I realize that it wasn’t the self help books that got me started; it was my dad.
Here’s a powerful parenting lesson I’ve learned since becoming a dad myself: When it comes to raising children, a lot more is caught than taught.
In other words: Don’t tell your kids what to do, show them.
My father knew this instinctively.
He didn’t teach me self-discipline. He showed me.
He showed me how to live with integrity and principle.
He showed me how a man’s word—his promise—is everything.
He showed me how to navigate life with a sense of deep trust and reliance on my Creator.
He’s been showing me things all my life, and I couldn’t be more grateful.
Happy Father’s Day, Dad. I love you.
And happy Father’s Day to all the dads out there.
Being a dad is a privilege; having one is a gift.
