A Father’s Day Message from Hoot Reading

“‘Father’ is the noblest title a man can be given. It is more than a biological role. It signifies a patriarch, a leader, an exemplar, a confidant, a teacher, a hero, a friend.” –Robert L. Backman 

We can never put into words the magnitude of impact a dad can make in our lives. With all the roles they play, they didn’t simply tell us how to live, they showed us. From our younger years up into adulthood, we have become better human beings thanks to the love and wisdom that only a father can give. 

To celebrate Father's Day this year, we asked our team a question: What is a valuable lesson that you learned from your father that you brought into adulthood?

This is my dad Kanti or Dr. Rajani as most of my friends know him. He embodies the saying “age is only how you feel” and inspires me every day to move, eat healthy and live your life to the fullest! I hope to be as joyful and fit as him at the age of 80!

- Maya, Hoot Team Member

Here's me and my pops, Ken! My dad has taught me too many life lessons to count, but a handy one that comes to mind is how to change a tire, and also how to drive a manual! 

- Lyndsay, Hoot Team Member

Here’s my dad and me at my wedding. One thing I can think of that he’s taught me is the value of hard work.

- Cindy, Hoot Team Member

This is my Dad, Roger and I. One thing he has taught me is to not take life too seriously and to dance and sing like no one is watching. He is also the reason I am an avid hockey and baseball lover!

- Jordan, Hoot Team Member

This is lil me with my Dad, Ron. My dad taught me to be front and centre when a coach is talking. Although I don't have sports coaches I'm listening to anymore, I appreciate how it applies to other things. Be present and listen. There is a lot to learn.

- Kara, Hoot Team Member

My dad is an AVID reader with shelves  & shelves.. & SHELVES of books (and many more not visible on his kindle). The underlying lesson I brought with me in adulthood is "There's always room for more books."

- Megan, Hoot Team Member

My dad taught me to have an amazing work ethic and that you receive respect by giving it. He also taught me to golf, something we still love doing together today!

- Adam, Hoot Team Member

This will be my first Father's Day without Papa, and I miss him everyday. He has taught me what it's like to be generous and to expect nothing in return. He treats people equally and with kindness, even in the guise of a stern voice and a military demeanor. I've become tough and a softie at the same time because of him. 

- Anna, Hoot Team Member

To all the fathers and father figures in our lives, Thank You! You have been the coach, doctor, mechanic, reader, and everything else in between. For the multitude of titles you hold, we love them all just the same. We wouldn’t be where we are today, without you.

Happy Father’s Day!