Parental Advice That Shaped My Life: Lessons in Love and Wisdom
Parents are often the most influential figures in our lives, teaching us invaluable lessons that stay with us throughout our journeys. In my own life, certain pieces of advice have carried significant weight, especially those I observed through the actions of my own parents. Today, I want to share with you some of these lessons and how they have impacted my life.
The Opposite of My Parents
My parents, while well-intentioned, struggled with personal and familial issues. My mother had severe mental illness, and my father battled with alcohol addiction. They were consumed by the desire for wealth and respect, neglecting the well-being of our family. That beat me, and I made it my mission to do the opposite. By prioritizing the health and happiness of my children and my spouse, I have strived to instill positive values in my family.
Marriage and Family Values
My 50-year marriage to my high school sweetheart is a testament to the importance of enduring love and respect. We adhere to a strict policy of honesty, which has strengthened our bond and our family's dynamic. Even my parents, who lacked the capacity for love, never managed to achieve the level of mutual respect and trust that we have in our family. Our commitment to each other has been unwavering, much like the promises my husband made to me on our wedding day.
Lessons in Love and Morals
From my parents, I learned to forego vices like smoking and drinking, avoid letting anger control me, and remain selfless. Honesty, compassion, and the ability to love and be loved became core values in my life. These traits were not explicitly taught, but demonstrated through their daily behaviors and relationships. They may not have been capable of love, but their actions showed the way towards it.
The Wisdom in Reflection
A piece of advice that has stayed with me through the years is a simple but profound question: "Well if your friend jumps off a bridge, are you going to follow them?" This question encourages critical thinking and self-reflection whenever making decisions. It serves as a reminder to carefully consider the consequences of our actions and to avoid impulsive behavior.
Role Modeling and Cultural Influence
Their role as models in our lives played a crucial role in shaping my values. They demonstrated love, respect, humility, and the importance of family and hard work. Most significantly, their Godly role as people of faith inspired me to do the same for my family and others. Even in an environment where negative role models prevail, I strive to promote the right values and qualities that will leave a positive impact on those around me.
Encouragement for Parents
As a parent myself, I want to encourage others to be role models of positive qualities and behaviors. Our culture and social media often promote the wrong things, and it's more important than ever to stand strong in our commitments to family and personal values. By doing so, we not only enrich our own lives but also contribute positively to the lives of those around us.
In conclusion, the lessons I learned from my parents have deeply influenced my life. By doing the opposite of their choices and following the example set by their values, I have been able to build a fulfilling and loving family. Remember, the wisdom of our parents can guide us through life's challenges and help us make better choices. Let us use the lessons we learn to shape a positive and loving world for ourselves and others.