My Father-in-Law Taught Me What Honor Really Means

Feb 271 min read

After 15 years, I finally understand what the old man was trying to teach me. He never raised his voice, never made excuses, just did what he said he would do. Every single time. Lost a business deal last month because I wouldn't cut corners - the deal required me to be less than honest with a client. Turned it down flat. My FIL called me that week for something else and didn't even mention it, but he knew. That's when it clicked - honor isn't something people praise you for. It's something you do when nobody's watching because you know who you are.

6 comments174 views

Comments(6)

MMatt J.RegularFeb 27

That's the kind of stuff that hits different when you become a dad yourself. I'm trying to pass that same quiet integrity on to my kids instead of just talking about it. Sounds like you had a great teacher.

WWade G.RegularFeb 27

Fifteen years to get it, but at least you got there. That's the kind of dad lesson that'll stick with your own kids when they're older too.

AAdam J.RegularFeb 27

Man, this resonates. My FIL is the same way and I'm just now at an age where I appreciate what he was modeling for me. Takes a minute to sink in sometimes.

MMike R.New DadFeb 27

This hits home. Sometimes it takes years to understand what the old guys were actually saying. Glad you got there. Those quiet lessons stick the hardest.

EEdNew DadFeb 27

What was the thing that finally clicked for you? Sometimes I wonder if my kids will understand what I'm trying to teach them years down the road.

TTravis N.RegularFeb 27

Respect. The old generation didn't need to yell to make a point. Just watching how he carried himself probably taught you more than words ever could.