Most of you will never meet him. He’ll never be famous or achieve anything that makes the history books. However, he is a man that I admire and can honestly say that I wouldn’t be where I am today without him. Here is a note from him to me, which could be applied to many lives. So I thought I would share it.

Right off the bat I want to say how much I love you all, how much pride I have in each of you. I truly believe that all of you will be a success, if you aren’t already, in all that you set out to do. Remember that to be truly successful you have to have a clear picture of what you want to do, and you have to give it your all. Don’t give in our give up: Go for it!

In my adult life I have learned a few things that I want to share with you. Take it or leave it as  you wish.

1. Love your family* as much as yourself. There will be times when Family is the one comforting shelter you can find. Turn to Them and They will be There for you. Trust me I know this to be true.
2. Respect yourself and those you have contact with. If one does not have respect and faith in oneself, it is hard to have a positive outlook for life. In addition, respect others. People don’t like jerks.
3. Don’t procrastinate. In my case procrastination has led to moderately high blood pressure, being overweight, a long list of things that need done. (That should have been done already).

In conclusion, I love you all and want to be “around” you all for many more years. With some changes in myself, and you all not adopting some of my bad habits, I plan to be here for each of you for a long time.

Life is not always easy, but with a positive attitude and strong family connection, it can be easier.

Lastly, STAY IN TOUCH!

I always want to know how you are doing, what’s new, what’s ahead. I am so blessed to have all of you in my life.

Thank You!

Love, Dad

May these words help you when you need a word of encouragement again, or maybe for the first time.