According to History.com, Father’s Day was first celebrated in 1910 in Washington State. This was thanks to a woman named Sonora Smart Dodd, one of six children raised by a widower, who gathered support from the community for the holiday to be celebrated state-wide. The holiday slowly spread and went nationwide in 1924 when President Calvin Coolidge urged all states to observe the day.
What better way to celebrate this day than to look back and remember what our fathers taught us. We asked EducationQuest staff, “What did your dad teach you?” Here are their responses:
We’re All the Same – Jodi Vanden Berge
One thing I often think about was my dad saying, “We all have to put our pants on one leg at a time.” Meaning you should treat everyone the same no matter their station in life – nor should you feel intimidated by others.
Being Quiet is a Good Thing – Lori Caffery
My father taught me that not everything has to be spoken. Sometimes it’s good to just listen and take it all in, as it gives us time to form a better response or exchange of ideas. And sometimes, we can communicate more effectively when we’re not the one talking.
I Can! – Tricia Dunn
My dad was full of cheerfulness and positivity. Whenever anyone told him he couldn’t do something, his response was always “Yep, I believe I can.” Those are words I often say, especially to myself because it’s usually me thinking I can’t do something!
I Will! – Laurie Scharp
My dad had a similar saying, when we kids would say we couldn’t do something he’d say, “Can’t or won’t?” and he encouraged us to believe that we could do anything. It was just up to our choice to pursue it or not.
The Best Santa – Joan Jurek
My dad was a member of the Greatest Generation (grew up in the depression and fought in WW II). While his formal education was through 8th grade because of family chores, he constantly reminded his children and grandchildren to get as much education as they could. He loved Christ, his family, and strangers. His warm smile and big heart were naturally characteristic in his role as Santa – for over 40 years. His favorite saying… “Never take any wooden nickels.” This fit his genuine values and putting others first which no money can replace.
Giving More – Les Monroe
My father taught me to give all that you have to give, then dig deeper and give more.
Time with Dad, a Great Role Model – Kim Brown
I cherish the adventurous road trips I took with my Dad to work when I was a kid. What was meant to be business calls, was in hindsight my Dad teaching me by his example the value of working hard, diligence, confidence, empathy, and many other skills. I know my adventures with my Dad influenced my career path and my love for working with the community. Thank you Dad for paving the way.
Expert Sprinkler Skills – Liz Koop
My dad taught me how to install a sprinkler system and how to run the clock. I have always been able to repair my own sprinkler heads and program my clock (even from an app on my phone) so that it never waters when it rains!
Perseverance and Humility – Mike Timmins
Dad taught me the importance of family, faith, perseverance, humility, and hard work. He said there are three things nobody can take from me: My family, my faith in the Lord, and my decision to be kind to all despite our differences or disagreements.
Standing Behind Your Product and Service – Daphne Hall
My dad taught me the importance of good customer service and the importance of standing behind your product. Dad sold breeding stock to other hog producers across the country. He guaranteed the health and well-being of the animals for three months after they were purchased. If a hog became sick, he would replace it with another one from the herd. He always said it was important to deliver a high-quality animal to maintain a strong reputation for his business.
What did your father teach you?