a day ago
Father's best advice: Only back your car up as much as necessary; don't go overboard
Some argue fathers don't get their due when celebrating parenthood, that Father's Day is an afterthought for children compared to their considerations for Mother's Day. Spending for either day may back that up. Retail spending for Mother's Day this year was projected at $34 billion, and the National Retail Federation expected sales for Father's Day to hit $24 billion.
Regardless of the monetary value placed on the day, for this Father's Day, we asked readers to share their comments about the impact fathers have had on their kids. If the few responses to our callout is an indicator, Father's Day might, indeed, be an afterthought or taken for granted. Here's what they said:
My dad was an ordinary extraordinary man. He was born in 1920 and faced many of the hard times that Oklahoma faced. He wore overalls and was a farmer and oil pumper. We were poor, but proud. He had five children, and he wanted us to have more in life than he had. My father loved his wife and children and taught us the essentials to have a good life such as integrity, hard word, loving family, and loving God and your fellow man.
My dad did not talk about people. If told us, 'If you can't say something good about someone, then just don't say anything.' He also would say, 'Don't stir the stink.' Those words ring out in my ears a lot as a mother, wife, coach, teacher, and neighbor.
— Carol Bond Tiger, Morris, Oklahoma
The most important lesson learned: "Don't lose your joy and keep a spiritual side to your life. Keep your respect for your parents. The meaner this old world gets the closer you need to keep to God. ... Hard work always pays off in the end."
What being a father means to me? Grandkids; good times.
— Johnny Ross, Elk City, Oklahoma
More: With the right mentors, role models, young men can master, command their future | Opinion
When I think of my dad, I can't help but think of the kindness he has taught me. When I'm angry and riled up he always guides me to a peaceful solution. He gives people the benefit of the doubt ― every time ― even when I don't always want to hear it. My dad is my best friend. When I get news or a metaphorical (or literal) punch in the gut, he's the first person I call. I'm his only child, a daughter, and even though at times I know he probably wouldn't have minded more outside sport time, he always supported my interests and wholeheartedly invested in every moment for my benefit.I can't walk through a store or go on a walk without being reminded of him. He's my hero.
His best advice: 'Only back your car up as much as necessary; don't go overboard.'
— Emily Rose Turner, Norman
This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Fathers may be under celebrated, but their advice endures | Opinion
