My father died yesterday. He was 94.
He worked 33 years as a telephone company lineman and repair person. He was retired 41.
He taught me the world doesn't owe you anything. But it gives you everything if you work for it.
What I learned from him:
· Success isn't what you accumulate. It's who you help along the way.
· Freedom isn't avoiding work. It's loving what you do so much you'd do it without pay.
· You don't need all the answers. You need better questions.
· The goal isn't another achievement, another title, another milestone.
· The goal is a legacy. Something that outlasts you. Something that matters beyond yourself.
I'm 68. Maybe I’ve got 26 more years of lessons if I'm lucky.
Thanks Dad. Miss you.
9 comments:
Gordon, thank you for sharing your father’s wisdom and legacy with us. What a beautiful tribute to him and the values he lived by.
How meaningful that through your words, your father’s lessons will continue to touch and guide so many more people. That’s a legacy that truly matters.
My condolences to you and your family.
My condolences G! My dad was a lineman too. Tough breed.
So sorry for your loss. Thanks for sharing💔❤️💔
Sorry for your loss, Gordon..His spirit is part of you and will remain so forever.. My Dad worked for the phone company; he was a switch man.. Take care and God bless, Lois M
Sorry for your loss. Your father apparently was a highly principled man. His goal legacy will live on through you.
Gordon, you have such a wonderful perspective on your Dad's life that was obviously well-lived. I wish you, your Mom, and your immediate family only great memories as you go through this time of missing him. I lost my Dad early because they were close to 50 when they adopted me - I think of the lessons he taught me often. I, like you, am ones who was and is truly blessed. Thinking of you and praying for all of you.
Thank you for posting this Gordon. It explains a lot about why you are the kind of person you are. Prayers for you all.
I see where you got it from Gordon. Working with really smart people is great. Working with really smart, respectful and humble people like yourself is amazing. The best “boss” I ever had. Thanks to you and thanks to your dad who taught you so well. JJ
Just seeing this Gordon. I’m so sorry to read this. You may not remember me. I was one of your first students many years ago. I had a 2 year old, just married and working third shift in a factory. I would show up for your class after work every morning with a couple Jolt colas in my shirt pockets. One day I came into your office and told you I was going to quit school and work at factory. I could not do it anymore. We talked a long time and figured out how I could drop a couple classes, take some summer and winter break classes and graduate a semester late. Changed my life. When I was ready to quit, you convinced me I could do it, figured it out and I did. A wonderful career and life. Thank you. Jim G
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