My dad died on December 3, 2009. There have been a lot of thoughts and memories, a lot of tears, and a lot of pride for him running through my mind throughout this past year. I love and miss him so much.

My dad. Now here was a man ... Let me tell you some things I learned from him about work.

First of all, mediocrity wasn't in his vocabulary. He went all out, every time, and encouraged my brother and me to do the same. My dad was offered two scholarships for college: football and music. I found this out from relatives at his funeral. Why didn't I know? Why didn't he tell me that? He didn't talk about high school because he dropped out and joined the Navy. Why? To get away from home. He probably didn't mention it because he wanted us to keep going and not to follow that path. You can probably guess why he would drop out and give it all up if he wanted to get away from home. I'll just leave it at that.

My dad started his own business after he married my mom. A janitorial business. He told me often that he wanted more for my brother and me than cleaning toilets. My dad's business did well. He was a success. I bet by the end of his business career he made more money in his business than I do teaching.

When I graduated from college, he moved into carpet cleaning. He went to conventions, workshops, and Toastmasters to learn how to be the best he could be. He now had two businesses. He worked six and seven days a week. His work was fun for him. People loved him. Why? He listened. He made them laugh. He had a way of making people feel better after being with him.

My dad had Persistence. He took one step, then another, and then another. He didn't quit his businesses. He didn't give up. He kept on keeping on. He kept making it bigger! More trucks. More employees. More jobs ...

My parents sent me to the private, Christian college I wanted to go to. I worked in the student payroll office and saw my records and how much my dad made. Compared to other students' families, he didn't make much at that time. I didn't see how they could have sent me there with no financial aide or loans. I suddenly felt guilty. I asked my mom. She said they worked hard and paid each bill as it came and that it was okay. They wanted me to have a chance at the school I attended. Persistence.

My dad worked at his two businesses until he was 76 years old. He became very sick and had to stop working. It crushed him to shut down his businesses. Work and giving are what kept him going.  For someone who was told he wouldn't amount to anything, my dad sure did. I'm so proud of him.

My dad had a burning desire to be the best janitor and the best carpet cleaner he could be. And he was.

Lucky me for having had my dad for My Dad. I love you, Dad ...

Persistence is one key to our own success. May all of us keep on keeping on as we go through life. May we be ALL in and follow our passions ...

Aloha,
Cindy Manoske