All through my life I've had troubles and problems. Like any other female my age would, ups and downs with boys, all that nonsense. The one thing that has held me together is my Father. I love my mother as well, no doubt about it. It's just ever since I was little my Dad has always been my best friend! After every scrapped knee, flat tire, or broken heart he was there to see me through and let me know just how strong I really was.

It may have been hard for some girls to talk to their Dad, but it wasn't for me. He would help with everything he could and what he couldn't he'd try his best. That's a lesson he taught me, always give it your all and try your best no matter the situation or outcome! I can definitely say my Father didn't raise a quitter. I always strive to make him proud of me, even to this day. He showed me at a very early age just how strong I really could be. Since then I always strive to be that person, the person my Dad has helped me become down through the years.

Also he showed me how a man is supposed to treat a lady, my mother is so blessed to have him. He always done anything he can for my Mom, that's why they're still going 30 years strong! Working hard, the good Lord, and family is all my Daddy knows. Although he does love working just so he can spoil my Mom. They have such a strong love for each other and when I ask what their secret is he always says "Put God first and the rest will fall suit".

There are many things that come to mind when I think of my Dad. Although what sticks out the most is how hard working he is. Being 16 and working in the coal mines doesn't sound too fun to me. Nowadays you can work at 16 if you want but you don't have to. Back then 16 is around the age that your parents would expect you to pull your own weight and that's exactly what you would do. Having things handed to you definitely isn't something my Dad is familiar with. Everything he has, he has worked for it. He may have spoiled us when we were young, but he said he wanted us to have what he didn't. Working 12 hours a day at 16 isn't what he wanted us to be doing at that age.

Working hard pays off, broken bones and hearts heal. Good things come to those who work for them. Having a bad day and a bad life are two very different things! If you fail or don't fail, hold your head up high, at least you tried. Turn the other cheek, even if it kills you.

Wise words of an even wiser man.