Lessons From Dad

The adage “Children Learn What They Live” couldn’t be more true as evidenced by these eight kids who speak from the heart as they pay tribute to their dads. WS shares their unedited response to the question: What is the most important lesson you learned from your father?

Jerome, 19, with dad Alejandro and sister Camille

My Dad taught me from a very young age to always treat everyone with respect, whether that be the person who mops the floor or an individual that some may consider unimportant, your kindness will go a long way in life. When you leave this earth, people won’t only remember you for what you did but more so for who you are, and in that sense that’s a lesson, I’ll hold dear to me forever. (Jerome)

Nicholas, 11, with dad Steinar

My Dad has always taught me the importance of being kind to everyone around me. My father treats everyone with respect and kindness - regardless of who they are or what they do. He is really nice, polite and generous to people that work in the service industry and I try my best to follow his example. For him, being a really good person is more important than being super smart and accomplished. My Dada is also always calm and cool in any situation. I am a little more impatient but I would like to be as cool as him. (Nicholas)

Adam, 12, with dad Alex

Never give up even when you’re at your lowest. It takes a lot of courage to push through hard times. The struggles will help you in the future to be stronger. (Adam)

Natalia, 9, (L) with dad David and siblings Lucia and Jacobo

Learning is the best thing you can do in life, you will never be bored.  My Papa has taught me to do so many things from understanding math, biking, skiing, and treating people politely that I probably cannot ever stop learning! (Natalia)

Rocio, 5, with dad Roman

Save your tears. Cry when it’s painful. Smile when you know it will be okay.(Rocio)

Raphael, 13, with dad Michael

An important lesson I've learned from my dad has to be forgiveness. Although I annoy him over small matters and he gets furious over bigger matters, he scolds me first and talks to me later. Of course, he would forgive me for what I had done, and expects me to learn from my mistakes. Because of this, I love him for who he is as he takes time to teach and guide me through lessons in life to improve and grow to be a better person. Love you Dad! ❤ (Raphael)

Edward, 11, with dad Toby

My Daddy taught me how to play honourably. We play many board games together - my favourite is Axis & Allies, based on the Second World War. Daddy does not tolerate cheating. At first, it was hard, because Daddy wins most of the time at whatever he plays. However, the rare times I beat him, I feel a sense of genuine accomplishment when we shake hands. (Edward)

Robert, 7, with dad Henry

I really look up to my Dad. He has taught me so much over the years. From him, I have learned to put others first, to always do the right thing, to try to focus on a few things but to make sure I do those things really well. For example, in the past few years, I focussed on taekwondo and rugby and have gotten really good at those two activities. My Dad is a great role model for me and my brother, Thomas. (Robert)

Debbie | ws