Commentary

In Honor Of My Dad

by Maarten Albarda , Featured Contributor, December 21, 2015

My dad just passed away. I happen to think he was the best dad in the world.

His illness was unexpected and fast, and particularly cruel, since he died from late-stage lung cancer without having ever smoked in his life, and having lived more healthfully than most other people I know.

A day before he died, he asked me to write down a few words for his five grandchildren, to pass on after his death. It was one of the hardest, but also most beautiful, things I have ever had to do.

I actually read his words out during the funeral as part of my speech. I told those gathered that although these words were meant for his
grandchildren, they are actually good advice for anyone. And that is why I decided to share them with you here as well, in honor of my dad. Call them life lessons. Call them his values. Call them his last bit of fatherly advice.

Regardless, I hope they offer you something to reflect on as we get ready for Christmas and the new year.

He told me to tell his grandchildren:
“I wish you all a life of dedication to collaboration with good people.
Persevere — but if you’re stuck, ask for help.
I wish you love, and remind you to always think positively.
Make life great!”

So, no excuses. My dad told you so.

8 comments about "In Honor Of My Dad".

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Bob Hamilton from New Radio Star, December 21, 2015 at 2:22 a.m.
Thank you for sharing this...
Reply

Gordon Hotchkiss from Out of My Gord Consulting, December 21, 2015 at 10:31 a.m.

Maarten

Condolences to your family and yourself. I also lost my Mom earlier this year. And, like you, I had some bitterly beautiful moments near the end of the journey. We have to listen hard to the wisdom shared with us by those that have walked a difficult path.

Gord

Ed Papazian from Media Dynamics Inc, December 21, 2015 at 10:34 a.m.

Very sorry to see this, Maarten, and my sincere condolences.

brenda mckenna from BCM Media, LLC, December 21, 2015 at 10:37 a.m.

He sounded like a great dad. Sorry for your lose. Thanks for sharing this. Good advise for all of us to live by. Stay strong.

Chris Elwell from Third Door Media, December 21, 2015 at 10:56 a.m.

So simple and eloquent. Your dad was a wise man. Condolences.

Dave Morgan from Simulmedia, December 21, 2015 at 11:17 a.m.

Maarten, I am so sorry for your loss, but I thank you so much for sharing. Wise words.

Russell Isaacson from sovrn Holdings, Inc., December 21, 2015 at 8:14 p.m.

My condolences to you and your family, and thanks for sharing these inspiring words.

Paula Lynn from Who Else Unlimited, December 21, 2015 at 10:38 p.m.

Avah la shalom...may he rest in peace. Condolences to all. He sounds like such a wise and wonderful person.