… building character
My kids’ high school principal caught me off guard one day and asked me why I had not been more forthright in telling her who my kids were. The longer story is that I volunteered time as a school board member, a School Trustee, and consciously avoided associating myself with my two wonderful children, students of her school, particulalry when serving in any official capacity. I explained that my kids needed to learn that life is their dominion and building their own independent foundation was important to their eventual success as adults. I observed that so often children of coaches, etc. fight for their own identity and this is not a good thing. She seemed puzzled by my response, but commented that whatever I was doing it was working. I was puzzled when she challenged me to write a book on parenting. I like this lady very much. She is a strong women, a builder. I’m as yet uncertain that I have that much to contribute to the subject, but intrigued enough by her confidence to start here. Time will tell if my memories and reflections rise to a level she would consider book worthy.
One thing for sure, I have vivid memories of parents, teachers and friends who taught me well. I certainly feel comfortable passing on memories and reflections of their counsel and example. My first article here comes in the form of a memorial to my father in-law, Robert E. Wood. The occasion unfortunately is his passing. He inspired me as I watched him with his daughter, my wife, and my children, his grandchildren. Now, that’s a man who should have written a book. It would have been a best seller. I present his “Life Sketch” – it’s the best I can do for now. In time, as I reflect on our days together, I will do better and catalogue the things he inspired.
My father in-law, “Pop” to me, passed away June 28, 2011, at 95 years old. With the help of family and friends we compiled a tribute to him. He is a man deserving an epic tale and our sketch only hints at the storied nature of his life.
Click or Touch here: Life Sketch to view.
It is common place to talk about people of Pop’s age as being of, or in, the Greatest Generation. He exemplifies that generation. I miss him.
Beyond making a difference in many people’s lives every day, he purposely called me son. That moment in the garage some 35-years ago meant the world to me then, and even more now.
Love and miss you, Pop!
Rest in Peace.
