Like many of you, I have traveled a few days during the summer, but I didn't make big plans or go to any faraway places. Instead, I shared time with family in a couple of different places in Arkansas.
That time was rewarding and served as a refreshing reminder of the following important life truths.
Being a parent is for life. My daughter is about to be a high school senior. My two sons are in their 20s. They will need me in the years ahead in ways they have never needed me before. They once needed me to tie their shoes but they are entering new phases in life where they may need my help with issues common among young adults. I want to be there for them.
A world-wide perspective is healthy for personal growth at any age. My daughter went on a four-week, school-related trip to Germany this summer and I surprised her upon her return home. She ran and jumped in my arms and yelled, "Daddy!" and then she hugged me real tight. Without a doubt, it was one of the best moments of my summer. I was so glad she made that trip. Her understanding of everything will be enriched because she saw much more of our world.
Remember where you came from. I grew up in Corning, Ark., a small town that had less than 3,500 people that proved to be invaluable to me growing up. No matter where I am in life I can still benefit from the small-town values that were instilled in me during the 1970s. And while I don't live there any more, I can still strongly identify with all the people who call it home, as well as anyone who knows what small-town America is all about.
It's good to touch base with those who've known you all your life. While visiting family in that small hometown this summer, I ran in to different people who have known me since I was a child and that often makes for a warm encounter. I saw a gentleman in a restaurant who had coached me when I played football in the sixth grade. He was always encouraging us. He assigned me the duties of hiking the football as the center on the offensive line. He told my mother, "David is going to be the center for the Bobcats one day" (Bobcats being the hometown high school mascot). And I was. When someone sees potential in you and articulates it, it can certainly be inspiring. Sometimes all we need is to be told we can do it.
A bond with a sibling or siblings should be maintained. You will likely know brothers and sisters longer than you will know anyone else in life. Mathematically speaking, you will know them more years in your life than you will your parents, your spouse, or your own children. Only a childhood friend that becomes a lifetime friend comes close to knowing you that long. Today my brother Greg (18 months younger than me) runs the construction business that my dad started 51 years ago. Greg and I always shared a room growing up and we learned to help Dad in the family business at a very early age. While I was visiting family I went to work with Greg one day and it was, in many ways, like old times. Very special.
Learn from your parents. I had a heart-to-heart visit with my mother and dad. I told them all that was going on in my life and some goals I have. I wanted their feedback. After all these years, they still know more than me and have a better grip on life. Their perspective is worth more than gold.
Sometimes where a person goes on a vacation or on a get-away isn't important. But taking time to gain perspective is.
David Wilson, EdD, is the associate principal at Jefferson City High School. You may e-mail him at [email protected].