My Dad and my brother, two of the most important men in my life – Red Wing’s Game, Joe Louis Arena – December 2015
Today is my Dad’s 63rd birthday. As he and my Mom celebrate at their cabin in Canada with friends, I can’t help but think of all he has taught me over the years. So, as tribute to my Dad, I am going to answer the one question he asked me several times as a child (and maybe once or twice as an adult). I will also share the one thing he taught me that will always stay with me and is clearly now a part of who I am.
First, the question. As child, he asked me all too often “Lindsey, why do you always have to do things the hard way?” Well Dad, I would certainly like to know too. The thing is, I always have to discover things for myself, and unfortunately, I am incredibly stubborn, just like my Dad and his Mom, my Grandma Reid. I can’t help it. When it comes to my Dad dispensing advice that goes against what I feel is best, I am going to do what I feel is best at the time. He and my Mom gave me plenty of opportunities to make my own choices even as a teenager. Over the years, of course, I’ve grown up and made better decisions, but every now and then, I still go rogue and disregard my Dad’s advice, usually at my peril. So, Dad, if you are reading, the reason why I have to “do things the hard way” is because I am too much like you.
The biggest lesson I learned from my Dad is undoubtedly to go after whatever it is you want out of life. My Dad may not fully understand why I love the things I do or why I want certain things out of life, but he has always supported me in chasing my dreams. I watched my entire childhood as he went after his dreams. There was never any doubt that I was expected to do the same. There were times when I wished my Dad more fully understood why I love the things I love and why I chase the things I do, but I know deep down he understands more than most.
Happy birthday, Dad! I love you. Lonzo.
