Lessons From My Father

07-26-2025

Learning by Watching Closely.

I worked in the family business every summer during my childhood. I started sweeping the floors, loading trucks, and working in all the company’s departments. After graduating from college, I began my full-time career at the company and eventually took on a more managerial role. During this time, I started observing everything my father did daily as the company’s president. From how he greeted customers to how he handled conflicts, I studied his every move. His habits seemed outdated at first, especially since he reminded me of Archie Bunker. However, within weeks, I began to see a different picture. Surprisingly, he was more like Einstein in his practical genius. The lessons from my father continue to shape me to this day, which is why I’ve titled this story Lessons From My Father.

Building Structure Amid Tradition.

Eventually, I took on more responsibility. I handled personal and public relations, as well as all incoming donation requests. To bring order, I began drafting a formal policy and procedures manual. When I presented it, he gave me a puzzled look and said, “Why do we need that?” He believed everyone already knew his rules. I explained the need for consistency and clarity, but he remained unconvinced. Still, he let me move forward—reluctantly.

A Test of Patience Begins.

Soon, we needed a front office receptionist. She had to be friendly, organized, and able to direct phone traffic effectively. My father insisted on helping with the interview process. I reviewed the candidates, prepared the questions, and scheduled the interviews. Everything felt under control—until it wasn’t. His idea of appropriate questions was far from legal or modern.

Interview Etiquette Goes Awry.

As soon as we started, he asked, “Are you married?” Then, “How many kids do you have?” and “What church do you attend?” I had to stop him each time and explain that those questions were off-limits. After the fourth interruption, he threw up his hands and asked, “Well, what can I ask?” Thankfully, the applicant had a great sense of humor and answered anyway. We laughed, but I knew that was the last time he’d sit in on an interview.

Echoes of the Past Remain.

Now that I am in my 60s, I find myself echoing some of his ways. Although I don’t call younger women “honey,” I still refer to the long-haired teens as hippies. It’s almost involuntary. These quirks appear without warning, as if they’re embedded in my DNA. Even when I try to be modern, that Southern charm sneaks in.

A Legacy That Sticks.

What once annoyed me now amuses me. My father’s style, though outdated, had a unique brilliance. He ran a business by gut instinct and fierce loyalty. I’ve come to appreciate those traits, even as I do things differently. His influence wasn’t just behavioral—it became foundational. The stories and lessons from my father still guide how I lead my life and how I think about the challenges of the day.

Passing Wisdom Forward.

Although times have changed, the values remain the same. Humor, tradition, and integrity still matter in business. My story about lessons from my father is a reminder that wisdom often comes in unexpected forms. Even when we modernize, we carry our mentors with us.

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