Dad, you are one of the biggest role models in my life. Every single day you teach me something new and valuable. There are just some lessons a daughter can only learn from their father.
1. Be a leader.
Ever since I could remember, I have watched you take on leadership roles. I have admired how many people look up to you and go to for advice. Not only have you had a ton of leadership roles, but you do a dang good job at it and definitely do not disappoint. You have inspired to me to take on my leadership roles in my own life. I can only wish to be half the leader you are one day.
2. Stand up for what you believe in.
If there is one thing you are not scared of doing, it is standing up for what you believe is right. It is astonishing how much passion you have for issues that need to be addressed. I will forever hope that one day I can change lives in the way that you do.
3. With hard work, comes success.
I don't know anyone else who works harder than you do. You give your 100 percent at everything you do and because you that, you are crazy successful. I get my dedication from you. You always tell me to keep working hard and it always is worth it in the end.
4. Be appreciative and thankful.
Whenever we do argue, it's almost always about that I'm being "unappreciative." I would like to think that I have grown out of that stage. You have taught me to be thankful for everything I have and the life that I live. I am beyond lucky to have the privileges I do and have such great opportunities
5. Be quick to help.
You are a 24-hour resource for people to come to for help. I have watched you change people's lives immensely without any hesitation. You are the definition of a giver. I get your urge to help everyone and anyone from you.
6. Education is key.
Although education was not an opportunity for you at my age, you taught me that it is what will make me successful in my future. With an education, it opens a world to possibilities. One common word of advice you have always given me is to "focus on school." I will forever want to impress you and I try to do that through my grades.
7. Music makes a house a home.
I think the only time there isn't music playing in our house is when we're sleeping. It is uncommon for our house to be completely silent. You are the reason why I know every single '80s hit. I find myself becoming you and always playing music wherever I am. It's a sense of comfort now.
8. Boys are dumb.
I guess I should have listened to you when you told me this a million times. Lesson learned. I honestly think part of the reason why I have such expectations for boys is because I compare them to you. No one can ever be half the man you are.
9. Humans make mistakes.
You are an extremely understanding parent. I tend to panic whenever I make mistakes, but you always told me, "There's nothing you can do about it; you live and learn." I have learned to accept my mistakes and move forward. Thanks for being understanding about the 100-plus dents on my car.
10. Family is first.
You give absolutely everything to our family. You are such a good role model of the parent I want to be to my children one day.
