My father passed away during the summer of 2003 and I find it hard to believe it has been nearly seven years. It seems like a lot longer than that. A lot has changed since my father died. My youngest son David was born, I’ve relocated to North Carolina and I have found peace in my life. There have been times that I’ve been happy in my life, but I can honestly say that right now, I’m the happiest I’ve been in my life. And what mostly sucks is he isn’t here to share it with.
Memories of one’s childhood are often dominated by sacred events. As a male, sacred events are often synonymous with sporting events. Growing up in the Bay Area in California, I witnessed first hand incredible events at the Oakland Coliseum. A home run by Hank Aaron; the A’s victory over the Dodgers in the ’74 World Series and Jim Plunkett resurrecting his career in dramatic fashion with a playoff win over the Oilers in ’80 as a stepping stone to winning Super Bowl 15 for the Raiders.
But what made these events sacred to me was not their place in sports history, but rather that my father was right next to me for each event. I remember vividly that regardless of how loud the crowd was around us, I heard every word my dad said to me as if it was just the two of us in the stadium. On the drive home, we had some incredible talks. He would always tell me that the most important role I could fulfill in this life would be that of a father. As I look at my children now, I hope to be able to instill the same attributes of integrity, honesty, compassion and loyalty that I learned from my father.
There is just something about sports and a father-son relationship that never dies. At my last SEM Mastery Workshop in San Jose this past April, I went to see the Giants with a few of the attendees. There were four of us, but we had five tickets. When the ticket taker asked who the extra ticket was for I replied it was for my father. “Will he be attending?” When I explained he had past away six years ago but we never missed a Giants game together she gave me a high five and said, “I hope you and your dad have a great time at the stadium today.”We did. A two-run homer sent the game into extras and the Giants won. Even though I know it is impossible, somehow, I like to believe my dad had something to do with it. And dad, I want you to know that even though I sometimes stumble, I strive everyday to follow your example.
Happy Father’s Day.
Rick says
Classy post Jerry! I miss my Grandpa all the time and he has been gone for 8 years. I am not looking forward to the time that I lose my dad.
That is a great pic of you and him, back when the hair was still all black. :)
Jerry West says
Thanks Rick … yeah, back when I didn’t have grey hair … those were the days. :)
Melody Andrus says
I found your blog through the link on facebook. A nice tribute to your dad Jerry. I have lots of found memories of Emerson. My trip to San Jose when Julie was born, really gave me an opportunity to get to know him. Since that time, we had lots of fun chats. I miss him too! Your thoughts really made me grateful that I still have my dad around.
JR says
Thanks for sharing your heart Jerry. I really appreciate you.
Andrew Edwards says
Hi Jerry
Thanks for sharing
You have been a mentor and an inspiration to me in business
Those attributes of integrity, honesty, compassion and loyalty have been shown
on many occasions
Who will get through in the world cup England or USA? Hmmmmm :)
Andrew
Mike says
Great story Jerry. I am going to call my dad today and have lunch with him. I don’t do it enough and I don’t want to imagine the day when it is an empty chair instead of really him. You are a rare marketer in the SEO industry with heart, soul and integrity. I wish there were more like you.
Colby B says
Awesome post Jerry!
Sukhdeepak says
Your blog shows your love towards your Father.Very well blog.