If you’re like me, you’ve been blessed to have a father present in your life and probably have not appreciated it as much as you should have. Dads are around to show you strength, pick you back up when you fall, and teach you some of the most unique and long-lasting lessons you’ll ever learn in life. In honor of Father’s Day, I’d like to recognize all of the things my dad has taught me over the years.

How to give and receive respect.

Because of my dad, my siblings and I were calling people “sir” and “ma’am” as soon as we could speak. Including him. Thank you, sir.

The value of hard work.

Since before I was born, my dad has been waking up at 5 every morning to go to work, even working most Saturday mornings. He started and still runs his own law practice. In a generation that expects instant results, my dad is a reminder to work hard and earn everything you get.

To be proud of who you are.

My dad was raised in New Orleans, and even when he went years without visiting, he has always kept his culture alive through himself and our whole family. He has always stood up for his faith and who he is.

Everything I know about sports.

One of my earliest memories is my dad singing the Gator fight song to me and my sister when we were infants. If I ever want an opinion on how our football team is looking for next season or someone to watch any kind of game with, my dad is my go-to guy.

How to be a coach and supporter.

My siblings and I have all been playing basketball since we could walk, and my dad has always been there supporting us, whether it’s as an actual coach or as an unofficial coach from the sidelines that the referees eventually have to escort out of the gym. Even outside of sports, my dad supports us in what we do and cheers us on.

How to laugh at yourself.

No matter how bad the situation (or how bad the jokes), my dad is always trying to make others smile. He’s given me my sense of humor and shown me how to make light of every circumstance.

How to fix things (or at least try).

Even even if Mom had to eventually hire someone to install those ceiling fans, I learned a lot from those four hours we spent attempting to do it ourselves. Thank you, Dad.

How to eat.

I’ve learned through my dad that just because your plate is empty, does not mean the meal is over. And just because those subsequent four plates are also empty, does not mean the meal is over. I’ve also been introduced to the most delicious Cajun food from my dad. There’s a reason that whenever we go somewhere, the restaurants always seem to be the highlight of the trip.

How to be the one to step up and kill the spider, and how it is not necessary to mask how terrified you also are of the spider while doing it.

Enough said.

How to be a great parent.

Through all of the struggles, my dad and mom have taught me how to raise some pretty awesome kids. I’ll always be grateful for how they have raised us, and how they have always put us first.

Happy Father’s Day, Dad. I love you!