9/10 grateful

Yesterday I had a wonderful visit with my father and nephew. My father and I have always had a close relationship. Growing up he was always my rock, my biggest supporter, my shoulder to cry on, and there for me no matter what. Unfortunately, we don’t live in the same state, and so with my busy family obligations and his retired lifestyle, our get togethers are far and few between. This has always made the time we do have together even more meaningful.

The older I become the more I see myself in my father, and the more I strive to be more like him. My father spent most of his life believing there were no limitations to what he could accomplish. He helped his father run a successful business, traveled, sailed and raced cars. He always expected the best and received it. Although my father is far from arrogant, on the contrary he is quite humble about his past. I grew up believing that diversity didn’t exist. My father treated everyone the same regardless of their race, religion or financial background. He always had and still has, a smile and a helpful hand for others. My father is my hero and always will be.

In my 20s my dream was to be an art teacher. I went back to college and studied and studied. The closest person to me at the time questioned my intentions and whether or not I was cut out for that type of career. However, it only made me more determined to prove him wrong. My father on the other hand, encouraged me to follow my heart. The day I received the results from the state teacher test, only to discover that I didn’t pass a portion of it, was devastating. I called my father crying ready to give up. His response without hesitation, “can you take it again, don’t give up.” He never passed judgment or made me feel inadequate, in fact he did quite the opposite. My father told me that he was PROUD of me! Proud! He explained, “you have a dream Mel, and you went back to school and studied hard for it. So what, if you didn’t pass this time around. Study and take it again, and if needed, again until you DO pass. But don’t let this discourage you from your goals!” That response and advice has stuck with me through my entire life. (I did pass the second time around and taught elementary school art for 10 wonderful years)

So today I am 46, mid life and starting over AGAIN. Altough I truly believe that you are only as old as you feel, and anytime is a good time to follow your dreams. My goal. My dream. Is to continue writing and illustrating quality children’s books.

I truly love to write, love to draw, and love educating children. My father’s advice resonates with me every time I feel low and doubt myself.