A Lesson on Failure from Alfred H. Duncan,Sr.
“Happy first Father’s Day!”
A warm, tingling sensation filled my chest as I responded to my father’s words of congratulations: “Thanks, Dad. Happy Father’s Day to you, man.”
After being on the phone for a few minutes longer, my father and I said our good-byes. As I stood there, in the middle of our kitchen, looking down at the bundle of endless potential in my arms, the sensation in my chest started to get more intense.
“I promise with all that is in me to be a good dad and to show you how to be a good man.”
Unable to really focus his eyes, Mekhi Eli, my one month old son, looked up at me as if to say: “You had better. I’m counting on you to lead the way.” Then with a stretch and a yawn, it was back to sleep for my little man.
As I contemplated various things to teach my son, I thought about how grateful I am for the myriad of lessons my father taught me. I wouldn’t be half the man I am had it not been for him. But there is one lesson, for which I am extremely appreciative, that stands apart from the others.
- Topics: ArticlesCharacter DevelopmentGrit, Perseverance, DiligencePersonal DevelopmentProfessionalSoft SkillsTeenYoung Adult
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