You win their hearts and their minds.
Recently, I posted a blog about my father. But as I reflect, I realize I didn’t tell the whole story.
I want the world to know: my father has always, always been a man of good intention.
I am so grateful for him, and for the lessons I’ve learned by watching how he moves through life.
My dad would play catch with me even when his shoulder hurt, just because I loved baseball. And I still play today on an amateur team in Sioux Falls because of those early days.
He’d drive the bus to every one of my baseball games. My football games. Even pep band—just to be there for me.
He always told me he was proud of me.
My dad is a great man. An honest man. Always there to lend a helping hand—even if he sometimes struggles to say no. He’s the kind of man who bites off more than he can chew, not because he wants recognition, but because he wants to help.
He’s different from other people in small but profound ways. When he drives the school bus, he always buys a treat and a pop for the kids at the end of the school year. Because he cares about them. Because he wants them to feel seen.
None of the other bus drivers did that.
It’s things like that which remind me how deeply my father cares for people.
And yet, I don’t want anyone to take advantage of his kindness. I know what that’s like—and it’s a slippery slope if you don’t learn how to put yourself first sometimes.
Sometimes we’ve both been at the mercy of emotions running rampant, or neither of us knew what was best.
My goal and my intent with my last blog was “tough love.” I wanted to shed light on how one might conduct mood management amidst the chaos life can bring.
But I don’t think that came through clearly enough. And so, I want to make a correction now.
I haven’t spent enough time telling the world about the good, so I’m learning to focus on more than just potential solutions I see.
And for that, I am sincerely sorry.
Dad, that probably made you feel like, despite all your efforts, they went unnoticed. And that’s not true. I see you. I’ve always seen you.
I want everyone to know:
My dad is man who has shaped the path beneath my feet. You are loyal, generous, and deeply caring. You show up, you fix things, you give your full heart, And even when your plate is too full, you keep trying to serve others whilst hanging yourself out to dry.
My last blog was a challenge for you, because 1. I know how strong you are 2. I’d like to see you hang yourself out to dry less often. I’ve been there. Stuck. Suspended in place.
But I want it known that underneath that challenge is nothing but love and admiration.
I am proud to be your son.
Because the truth is:
- You win people’s hearts and their minds.
- You make them feel seen.
- You lend your hand even when your own shoulder hurts.
- You are a man with a heart of gold.
Thank you for being the kind of man you are, Dad.
And for teaching me how to be one, too.
Now, let’s move from kindness to greatness together.
With tears in my eyes,