I was blessed with wonderful parents. I don't think I am overstating it when I say they are one of the greatest parenting teams of all time. I believe the litmus test of a great parent is when their children are more concerned about disappointing their parents than any consequence or punishment their parents might levy. I know this was true in my case. If I made a mistake I was worried about what my parents would
think not what they might
do. In fact, besides being sent to my room to cool down, I can't remember being punished. However, I do remember clearly feeling awful as I saw my mom crying while she made dinner and knowing that I had been part of the reason why. Ouch!
They taught me right from wrong and then showed me unconditional love as they watched me try to apply these principles in my own life. Perhaps the most important trait of any leader is to 'lead by example', and they were the model of "do what I say and do". I was fortunate to have many positive influences during my impressionable years, but certainly none as profound as my parents.
My father has a very positive attitude and an infectious sense of humor that make people want to be around him. When people casually greet my dad with a "Hi, how are you", he quickly responds with an enthusiastic "Excellent!" that stops them in their tracks. They can't help but smile as they continue on their way. I remember during scout outings being around the campfire with my friends while my dad would tell funny stories. Later, as we laid in our sleeping bags, my friends would all tell me how lucky I was to have such a cool dad. How right they are! My dad is also the smartest person I have ever known. He seems to remember everything he has ever studied and can fix anything that is broken. Unfortunately, I did not inherit that quality from him.
My mother is the standard of patience, spirituality and self-motivation. I believe her mansion in heaven was secured when she survived raising us four rambunctious boys. She showed the patience of Job and the wisdom of Solomon as she faced the daily challenges that we (mostly my 3 brothers) created. There was never any doubt of her testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ. I leaned on it more than my fair share during my teenage years. She also has a way of getting people to accomplish more than they think possible. I can remember when she served as the primary chorister she would challenge all the children to memorize all the verses to a specific hymn (Let Us All Press On, There is a Green Hill Far Away) in order to earn a pack of gum. Each time we sing those songs in church I smile as I think of the great legacy she has left me.
My parents sacrifice so much to be involved in the lives of their grandkids which, fortunately for me, allows my kids to be influenced directly from their great examples. They are leaving a great legacy to many generations. As I have mentioned
previously I know that "where much is given much is required", so it follows that since I was given the best parents I will be held to the highest standard. Yikes! As I am getting older I realize that I have a long way to go and a short time to get there, so... Giddy up, StevieG
They taught me right from wrong and then showed me unconditional love as they watched me try to apply these principles in my own life. Perhaps the most important trait of any leader is to 'lead by example', and they were the model of "do what I say and do". I was fortunate to have many positive influences during my impressionable years, but certainly none as profound as my parents.
