‘This is the year I’m going to die.’ That was my dad’s response after asking him what great things this new year will bring. Four years ago today, on his birthday, he uttered these words.
I tried not to burst into tears at his comment and followed up with, ‘How do you know this?’ He told me that he’s known this since he was in his forties. My reply is a bit of a blur because I knew he was right.
I saw it in his eyes, he had given up, and the struggle was too much. He already signed the check; he was ready.
Looking back, it was quite a beautiful moment. He was telling me he was surrendering, that he knew divine timing already had a plan for him. He passed less than one month later.
In honor of my Dad’s birthday, I want to thank him for loving me so much by sharing the following 8 lessons he taught me throughout his life:
Life Lessons
1. Listen To Your Heart
Your heart has brain cells in it and will speak to you. Don’t ignore these beats as they echo the truth. If you desire an extraordinary life, embrace the vulnerability of your heart and blanket others with love.
2. Your Courage Is Contagious
Have the courage to speak when others won’t even flex their tongue. Display the strength to stand up when others never left their seat. Demonstrate the perseverance to keep going when others refuse to tie their sneakers.
3. Be Proud Of Your Morals And Ethics
When you are steadfast in what feels right, you will no longer be triggered by viewpoints outside of our own because your inner strength will be unwavering. Only then will you attract the people and circumstances that will manifest a charmed life.
4. Surround Yourself With Those That Are For YOU
Run away from jealous people; they will end up hurting you. Immediately catching those red flags and having the fortitude to cut off ties will protect you in insurmountable ways.
5. Become Intolerant To Things That Don’t Resonate With You
We all desire three things in life: truth, beauty, and goodness. Seek this excellence in every aspect of your world and abundance will follow.
6. Have A Daily Practice To Connect With The Divine
There is an abundance of divine wisdom and universal truths that are here to guide you even in your most harrowing times. If you tap into your higher self, you will always find the answer.
7. Love Isn’t What They Say
It isn’t about oversized balloons and sparkling gems. It’s the glimmer in someone’s eyes where you can see the whole world. It’s the moment when you find the person whose heartbeat was destined to sing next to yours.
8. Become A Role Model
Be proud of exactly where you are in life. The pain is your strength, the defeats are a blessing, and the heartbreak was a lesson.The role model you have become is your gift to the world.
Conclusion
Thank you, Dad, for sharing with me lessons of wisdom that will forever be tattooed on my heart. I have surrendered, and found that my resistance was only preventing me from healing.
I know now you were trying to tell me that it’s all one divine plan and to trust. To trust that we are loved, guided, and protected.
Happy birthday, Dad. I love you.
This article was submitted to Love What Matters by Lisa Cafiero. You can follow her on Facebook. Join the Love What Matters family and subscribe to our newsletter.
Read more stories here:
11 Lessons I’ve Learned About Grief Since My Mom Died
‘He let me find my own language, my own voice.’: Gay man honors memories of his dad on Father’s Day
Provide beauty and strength for others. SHARE this story on Facebook with friends and family.