Lead By Example

I had an interesting conversation with my mom and sister this afternoon which has really resonated with me. My mom made the comment that the best thing a parent can do for a child is to lead by example or "do as I do." She said that this applies to eating healthy, exercising, treating others with respect, being financially responsible, working hard and loving your family, etc. I think she couldn't be more right and I told her so. As many of you know, my father passed away when I was 20 after suffering a traumatic brain injury as a result of a motorcycle accident. My siblings watched my mom remain extremely calm while he was sick and after his death, and pick herself up and live her life. She did not crumble to pieces; she rose to the challenges of living her life without her partner of 20 years. This example of strength did not leave my siblings and me. In fact, it was quite inspiring and gave us something to strive for. For me, I went right back to my college classes after his death, worked hard in school, graduated in four years and went on to get a job. Soon after, I got my master's degree, worked extremely hard and am now happily married with two beautiful children. I did not allow the premature death of my father to cripple my dreams or stifle my drive to succeed. I learned from my mom that the pursuit of happiness regardless of what life hands you is imperative to survival.

I hope all of you have someone in your life who has taught you to rise above the hurdles that may come before you. If you do, you are blessed to have that person in your life. They will show you that you have inner strength that will come from nowhere but is invaluable. They will show you that there is the strength of a lion inside of your veins even when your heart is weeping. A big shout out to Grammy Marla for teaching me this lesson." Do as I do"...I hear you loud and clear Mom.





Grammy Marla and Emma during our 4th of July celebrations