As we approach mid-summer’s day here in the UK, we are having another day with sunshine, rain and strong winds. Almost all the seasons of the year in one day – and it is supposed to be summer. Whatever happened to the long promised heat wave?!
This Sunday is the longest day of the year in the northern hemisphere and it always brings back sweet memories of past parties and celebrations with friends long into the twilight. This year I am planning to spend the evening with the The Comedy Store Players in Regents Park – this is where I witnessed a marriage proposal two years ago.
This Sunday is also Father’s day and this is another poignant reminder of the loss of my own father 18 months ago. It seems like only yesterday that I received that fateful call in the middle of the night from my mother. I will always carry with me the lessons in compassion from my father.
Looking back through the grieving period it is amazing how quickly the time has just flown by. It has been a time of reflection and appreciating what he did for us and what meant to us.
Father’s day will always be a time to remember just what my father has done for me
Such life changing events also make one grateful for the small things that matter in our life. As a friend said today in an email, every day above ground is a great day!
Being grateful and appreciative of our gifts serves to bring more goodness into our lives. It makes us more alive and vibrant. But just how do you show your appreciation?!
“It’s a sign of mediocrity when you demonstrate gratitude with moderation.” – Roberto Benigni
So if you wish, be vocal and loud in showing your gratitude! But most importantly, be genuine and authentic . Others will really feel your heartfelt thanks and will know that you are coming from a true place.
Father’s day is also an occasion to reflect on how one is towards the younger people in our lives. I am not a father myself but I would like to think that if I had children I would aspire to be as good a father as mine was to me.
I would aspire to be his or her best friend, a mentor and be there when needed. At the same time, I would like to think I could let go and let them follow their own journey.
I would also apply these words of wisdom and key lessons about how to treat a child from Amanda Cater:-
1. If a child lives with criticism, he learns to condemn
2. If a child lives with hostility, he learns to fight
3. If a child lives with ridicule, he learns to be shy
4. If a child lives with shame, he learns to feel guilty
5. If a child lives with tolerance, he learns to be patient
6. If a child lives with encouragement, he learns to be confident
7. If a child lives with praise, he learns to appreciate
8. If a child lives with fairness, he learns justice
9. If a child lives with security, he learns to have faith
10. If a child lives with approval, he learns to like himself
11. If a child lives with acceptance and friendship, he learns to find love in the world
And I would like to add my own point here:-
12. If a child lives with love he learns to contribute to the world!
What pearls of wisdom can you share about being a parent?
Please share your own tips about how you treat or would treat your children.
Happy Father’s Day – and depending on where you are in the world, enjoy the longest (or the shortest) day of the year.
