My Mom.
My Dad.
I've had many influences in my life. Some good, some bad, some from family, others from friends, and yet, even some from those I dont know that well. We as humans experience and take in a lot of information on a daily basis. With that, we have to figure out a certain filing system that works for us. I dont think I've found one that works for me, yet, but for right now, I'd like to think that I recall some of the more meaningful, important (and not-so-important) bits of information.
I grew up in a single-parent household. My father was not around a whole lot, or maybe just not as much as I'd like. My experiences were few and far between, but I was fortunate enough to have him in my life at all. Some of my fondest memories of him were when he would come every Tuesday to pick us up and take us to dinner at Pop's, a small burger and custard place in Menomonee Falls. It was our spot... we had fun telling random stories; stories that often didnt make sense and were pretty outrageous. Stories at which we could laught and if anything, share a smile. Spending time with my dad was always fun!
Another fond memory of my father was when he taught us how to ride a bike in our back yard. He spent hours with us holding on to the back of our seat, telling us when or how to peddle, when to brake and of course picking us up after we fell. My father can be a very intense man, but in that moment, he was always supportive and very patient with us, thank God! (Although, I think he left his patience behind when it came time to review our report cards!)
Now that I'm older, I unfortunately see my father less and less - yes something I need to change. However, my latest and probably all time fondest memory of my father, occurred just 2 1/2 years ago. It was Christmas Day and all my immediate family members were gathered and my siblings were in town. I had been going through some struggles with my boyfriend at the time. A boyfriend, of whom I had been dating for 6 years and was just then realizing that he may not be the one for me and decided to break it off. At any rate, I walked in behind my sister and brother. After my father said hello to them, he approached me with his big, open bear-like arms and immediately said, "What's wrong, honey!" If you know my father, his typical first response (especially if I havent seen him in a while), in the deepest voice possible, is "Hey, do I know you from somewhere?" I knew then that he was more attentive to me than I had every realized. (Really I just think he's softened greatly in his old age :) That afternoon we sat on the couch for about an hour; we talked, he gave advice, and I cried (a lot), but more importantly, he held me. It was real...
If there is one thing I will take away from my father, it is what he always used to tell my sister and I when we were teenagers... "always have a positive mental attitude - it will get you far". Now that I'm older and its OK to admit that your parents are right, I will gladly tell you that my father is SO right! Being positive is a state of mind. A state of mind that will depict a lot within you... your reactions, your views, your path and your influences. So no matter from who your influences stem, or what experiences in which they result, I challenge you to make it a positive one!
Don't take life too seriously... simply smile!