International Super Spy
I believe that what we become depends on what our fathers teach us at odd moments, when they aren't trying to teach us. We are formed by little scraps of wisdom. - Umberto Eco
I am one of those who is lucky to have an amazing father. An additional stroke of luck: we have a strong relationship. In the past and present, I admire my Dad. He is the best role model, and I continually aspire to be like him. While neither of us believe that personalities are “created” — I notice some similarities.
He may or may not read this post, but you are reading it now. If you are lucky enough to have a father, spend time with him. When I was younger, I wanted to be many things. Top of mind was being an international super spy, like James Bond. Above all though, I wanted to be like my Dad.
The same traits I aspired to have from these movie heroes were the same traits I saw in my father: strength, wisdom, courage, and patience.
Fighting Snakes
I remember watching “Chamber of Secrets” with the infamous snake battle when I was younger. My Dad was leaving for work one day, and I asked if he was going to “fight big snakes?”.
“I am,” he replied, and grabbed my toy wooden sword out of the umbrella vase. He could tell I was awestruck, and that I wanted to battle snakes for a living too.
It wasn’t because I thought fighting snakes was awesome. It was because my Dad did it.
I may not be a super patient person, but when I feel that I’m crossing the line, I think of the patience my Dad had for me when I was an annoying little kid (and now, as an annoying little adult).
When I lose perspective, I think about the travels and trips that my Dad organized. As my Dad would attest to, this is something he did really right. I cherish what we call “adventure trips” and I’m eagerly looking forward to the next one. I gave it some thought: I literally would not trade these experiences for billions of dollars in cash. If I died tomorrow, these memories would be enough for me to consider my life full — any more is just a bonus.
Adventure Trips
Experiencing new cultures and parts of the world in an authentic and curious manner is something that so utterly shaped my worldview, completely thanks to my Dad. I think that genuine curiosity is one of his best qualities, and something that has always inspired me to challenge my most fortified ideas.
When I feel weak or lacking in courage, I’m reminded of the brave face my Dad has held during times of hardship. I see a person led by selflessness, duty, and a strong desire to help and protect his family. When I have a family of my own, I hope to be even just half of the man my father is.
Love you Dad.