Musings

I informed you in the last post that I would share more of my lessons learned continuing with my summer after high school graduation. That is when I learned that the advice of my father to pursue another profession other than the one that he practiced was very sound. My admiration of my father was founded in a relationship of utmost respect. He was not highly educated, but was respected by his peers in his profession. He worked through the week as a concrete mason.

At one point in time, I had indicated to him that I wanted to follow in his footsteps, but he encouraged me to do otherwise. His words were, “You have too much sense to do what I do.” My father had my respect because he was an exemplary provider for his family. He got up early most days to leave for jobs that were far off, and he came home dirty and tired each day. Yet, he spent time with us and took care of things around the house that required his attention. I felt no shame in his being a blue collar worker. He also was a preacher of God’s word and a pastor of some of God’s people. He was greatly respected and noteworthy in this area of his life as well. No, I felt it would be and honor to follow behind him.

However, it was during this summer that my mind and life choice was utterly changed. I was hired as a crew member to work with my father on his jobs. The prospect was somewhat intimidating, but I felt up to the task. He had taught me that hard work was honorable and that all jobs were worth doing well. He worked me harder than I had ever worked in my life. Even sports practice did not compare to the work I had to do that summer. I was glad to begin my college education. Nothing compared to the rigor of working with my father. The classroom had to be easier.

While I didn’t stay on the job long enough to earn a promotion, I got one from my father. He taught me that it is better to complete whatever task that is assigned to you without complaint. Every job needs to be completed and completed well. You are judged by the work that you do and the results of your labor. Your attitude makes a world of difference. I wanted my father to be proud of me, so I worked hard and without complaint. I learned that hard work does not kill you, and you will be commended for your efforts.

That lesson has followed me throughout my life. Excellence is the ultimate goal in all that I do. However, even if I fall short, I am always satisfied that I did my best. In the long run, you will be respected and appreciated. I learned how much that summer had gained me in my relationship with my father. He told me before he died that he could not have been any prouder of me than he was at the conclusion of that summer. He had made my jobs harder than he would have for any other worker, but I had completed them all well and without complaint. He said that he merely wanted more for me than weariness and dirt every day. I had already decided to do something else with my life besides be a concrete mason. That summer just served to confirm my new direction.

The next post will chronicle lessons that I learned about making plans for your life and how it is good to be flexible.