As I reflect on Father's Day this year, I realize this one will be my 25th since my own dad passed away. My 86-year-old father-in-law has been a wonderful "stand-in" and has helped fill some of the void my father's passing left behind, and I'm grateful for him. Even so, I still find myself missing my dad from time to time, and Father's Day is certainly one of those occasions.
I've also enjoyed 30 years as a dad myself. Raising four wonderful children has been one of the crowning achievements of my life. My youngest is a rising senior at university, so the chapter of raising and educating my own children is drawing to a close within the next year or so.
Those were the thoughts I expected to be reflecting on this Father's Day with a full heart.
Then I received a wonderful surprise.
My oldest daughter recently informed me that she is expecting a child, which means that, Lord willing, this old dad is going to become a grandfather for the first time this December!
I know that's technically a different category, and I'm pretty sure Hallmark (or somebody) came up with a Grandparents' Day somewhere along the way. I'd probably have to Google when it is because, until recently, I hadn't given it much thought.
As I thought about that news, it struck me how many of life's milestones come in seasons. First you're learning from your parents, then you're raising children of your own, and before you know it you're preparing to welcome grandchildren. In many ways, that's what I see in my work as a financial advisor as well. Some of the most meaningful conversations I have with clients involve family, legacy, and preparing the next generation for what comes next. The best plans aren't built just for today—they're built to support the people we love for years to come.
I've heard so many wonderful things about being a grandparent, and I'm sure many of my clients will enjoy turning the tables and offering this advisor some sage wisdom about what lies ahead and how I should approach this new role.
I have to admit, the advisor in me is also raring to go with advice for the new parents in the family. But until they come asking for it, I'm guessing the best advice I can give myself is to keep it in reserve. After all, it's one thing to provide advice people actually pay me to give, but doling it out unsolicited is a whole different matter.
As I prepare for this new role as a grandfather, I'm reminded that some of life's greatest blessings are the relationships we build and the legacies we leave behind. Whether you're celebrating as a father, grandfather, son, daughter, or simply remembering someone who shaped your life, I hope this Father's Day provides an opportunity to reflect on those relationships and appreciate the people who helped make you who you are today.
Happy Father's Day to all the dads, grandfathers, and father figures out there. I hope you have much to celebrate this year, and I hope you enjoy making a few new memories along the way.