Although not always original, my father’s one-liners were ubiquitous. Here’s a small sample:
- -Proper Planning Prevents Poor Performance
- -One oh sh__,… can wipe out a thousand ‘atta-boys.’
- -When you have two kids, you can play man-defense. When you have three, you have to switch to zone.
- -When you asked where someone was, his response was, “It wasn’t my turn to watch ‘em.” (have to admit, I still use this one on my kids)
- -It doesn’t matter how fast you dig, make sure the shovel is full before you bring it up.
He was a pipefitter by trade and worked for Michigan Consolidated Gas, digging holes and repairing gas lines. As a kid, I marveled at his ‘popeye’ forearms, which were about the size of my shins. He was gruff, had a booming voice, and a short fuse. He was also calm in a crisis, compassionate, and loved to laugh and make others laugh.
Father’s Day is a time to reflect on how the men in your life shaped you into the person you are today, and the awesome responsibility you take on in helping shape the next generation.
Becoming a father changes you in ways you can’t fully appreciate until it happens. You no longer live for you. The births of my two daughters were the most inspiring and overwhelming moments of my life. While I mostly credit their mother, I know I had a role to play in the strong, beautiful, and thoughtful young women they’ve become.
I’m thankful for the opportunities they’ve had growing up here in Clinton Township and the education they’ve received in Chippewa Valley Schools, just as I am thankful for the opportunities provided to me by Clintondale Schools.
As a community, we can work together to protect and expand opportunities for young people. As the father of daughters, I want to make sure that women have an equal chance to compete and be successful along with the freedom to make important decisions about their health and the direction of their lives. What I want for my children, I want for every child in our community.
So for the love, guidance and strength you provide and the sacrifices you make for your loved ones, I wish you the happiest of Father’ Day.
Paul Gieleghem
