Intro -- Preface -- Don't Throw Rocks -- Dad used to tell me that you shouldn't throw rocks if you live in a glass house, or your own windows will be broken. -- Words -- My father used to tell me, "Watch what you say." Another one was "Say what you mean and mean what you say." -- Are You Special? -- Dad used to tell me that I was a very special boy/man/adult/father, but you aren't that special. In other words be humble and work for what you want. -- Ask the Second Question -- Dad used to tell me that if you didn't ask questions, you didn't get answers. -- You Are Not Owed Anything -- Dad used to tell me to work hard and do the very best that you can regardless of what you are doing. If you work hard, you can get the things that you want. You are owed only what you have earned. -- The Golden Rule -- Dad never gave me any advice about this. He lived it. It is very simple. "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." -- Be Polite and Kind -- Dad: "Watch your manners!" -- Manage Your Money -- Dad told me, "When you get paid, pay yourself first. Save." -- Dads Aren't Perfect -- Dad used to tell me that "you aren't perfect, but do the best you can." -- A sampling of what I have learned in a nutshell. Just a thought. (Well-duh statements.) -- Epilogue.
Summary:
Dads deserve more credit. This book is giving dads their due. Dads are there through the thick and the thin, the good and the bad, and the happy and sad. This book is a tribute to my father and all the things that he tried to impress upon me as I grew up and through my adulthood. Some lessons took longer than others. It is my wish that you find some of the stories funny, some heartwarming, but all with a lesson to give. Maybe you can learn that you aren't really that special or that you aren't owed anything. I hope that you will follow the Golden Rule and to be polite and kind. Remember, dads aren't perfect. I love my dad even though he died many years ago. He is with me always, teaching and reminding me. Your dad probably is with you as well. This book isn't about dad jokes. It's about dad lessons.
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.