I Woke Up This Morning…

Posted under Daughters, Family, How I See It by Mike

I realized that after nearly 50 years (I said nearly) I’ve accumulated knowledge that has lead me down this very path I am enjoying now.  For example I’ve learned:

*No one has ever asked me what my high school or college GPA was.  Ever. Bastards!  My high school guidance councilor once told me that I’d never amount to a pile of beans unless I earned a good grades.  Crap!!

*My wife is remarkable.  She is truly beautiful.  Her adaptability is amazing.  She’s had the challenge of not only raising a daughter with type 1 diabetes but has had the responsibility to raise two daughters not her own.  I want to become a better person just to make her happier. She can also be a huge fucking challenge.  That said, the good will always outweigh the bad in our relationship. 

*My high school friends remain amongst the closest I have.   But its on me to keep all of my friends.   I need to initiate the communication – or the friendships inevitably fade… 

*Perception is everything.  Aristotle had it right.  The person you are trying to persuade will be more malleable if you understand their needs/desires/motivations and modify your message.

*Laughter cures almost all.  It is such a powerful emotion.

*I change over time.  I love spinach.  I no longer appreciate the spinning cups at Disneyland.

*Giving is always more fun than receiving.

*After spending the last few years in affluent town I’ve realized that people with wealth are not necessarily happier than people without wealth.   Happiness seems to be derived from being appreciative for what you have and the life you live. 

*I am often the most fortunate when I just say “yes.” I occasionally have regrets when I say “no.”

*My father, one of the wisest men I knew, used to tell us that M&Ms, Desitin Antiseptic, and duct tape could be used to fix just about anything.  I’d like to add Craigslist and a Visa card to the mix.