A tribute to my dad

As of today my dad is officially retired. In honor of him, I post this tribute.

I've learned a lot of my dad over the years- how to water ski, to value tradition, to believe that all guys are sorry until they prove otherwise. But some of the most important lessons were about jobs and work. Whenever my sister or I would complain about a job, he would always remind us- there is a reason WORK is a four-letter word.

Despite this seemingly negative adage about work, I learned several positive truths from my dad.

1. Develop a strong work ethic.
Too often people mistake this idea with the belief that work has to become their #1 priority and they end up becoming workaholics. Instead, my dad simply taught us that a strong work ethic means giving your best to the job or task that is requested of you. As a result of the example set by my dad, both my sister and I started working at a fairly young age. Like my dad, the skills I learned in those early jobs have contributed to developing my strong work ethic.

2. Work hard, but play hard also.
My dad has always been a hard worker. I remember the times when he worked night shifts, the Fair days, and the part-time jobs. He did all of these things because it allowed him not only to provide for our family, but also to be with us. These jobs equaled family vacations to the beach or Disney World or cruises.

3. Whatever you do, do it with integrity
My dad didn't actually talk about his job at home very often. He was usually too busy listening to me, my sister or my mom complain about our jobs. But I've hear comments over the years which lead me to know that my dad is respected by those he has worked with.

As someone who has never been at any job longer than 2 years, it is especially impressive to me that my dad is retiring from the Police Force after 32 years. For 32 years he has given his best to his job. This was a career of service and sacrifice. To the department and to his family. And so, like so many others, I simply want to say- thank you.