1 of 100 Dads – The Teenage Hangout

So I begin the second half of this amazing journey with the launch of 100 Dads 1000 Tips 1 Million Reasons. I’m so excited to share the wishes and wisdom of 100 Dads, and am sure they will reach your heart in the same way they have reached mine.

As with 100 Moms, first the blog, then the column and then came the book. I can’t imagine a more natural progression to building this ‘village.’ It’s an honor to develop these messages and share them on a larger stage.

I hope Moms will share the site with any Dads they might know. I’ve learned a lot about the special love Dads hold in their heart for their children, even when they aren’t always able to show it.

What I know for sure, we’re more alike than we are different!

I couldn’t think of a better man or a stronger Dad to kick off 100 Dads than George Edward Howard Hustins (January 23, 1936 – January 27, 2019), a great man forever in our hearts. George was an excellent example of everything it means to be a Dad. He was a solid and gentle man with firm family values and an enormous strength of character.

Most importantly George was a loyal, hardworking and proud husband and father. George drove a motorcycle, was in the Air Force, and was Chief of the Fire Department. He was all things cool, both handsome and handy.

At George’s memorial service, where there was standing room only, many spoke of his dedication to his family and his community. A beautiful tribute highlighted his contribution to the larger community and remarkable leadership. There was frequent mention of the importance he placed on family and his hands-on parenting approach. Much of what was said on that day is reflected in the tips George himself shared.

I’m beyond proud that George shared his thoughts with me for this book. It is a privilege to share his wisdom.

George, “Our children were not allowed to go to “The Square.” That was a breeding ground for trouble.” Tip 1

George’s tips were all noteworthy; it was difficult to choose one in particular. I couldn’t pass up the chance to write about the ever-so appealing teenage hangout. I really appreciate George’s top tip about “The Square.” I think there is a “square” for most teens. They do like to congregate.

For me, my first “square” where I too was forbidden to enter was “The Rez.” Growing up, our neighborhood was surrounded by wooded trails and I was definitely not allowed in the woods, or near the rez (reservoir). This was a real sticking point as “all the fun” was happening there.

Of course, as an adult I now realize it absolutely was a “breeding ground for trouble;” however, it did sound like fun when I received the next-day details. I was certain my parents hated me and were attempting to ruin my life.

Surprisingly, and fortunately, I never made it into the woods. My parents did a great job of terrifying me about what could be found lurking behind the trees, or even more scary, what would await should I get caught. I have to say, this is one of few things they were right about.

I guess it may be somewhat universal that engaged parents are trying to identify and prevent pitfalls for easily influenced, vulnerable teens. Admittedly I was, at times, hard to contain but their watchful eye and hard rules did prevent some mishaps.

It sounds as though George was also successful at preventing mishaps. He had a good handle on where his children should be, and who they would be with.

Although my time with George was short, it was long enough to know that he lived each of his tips. His values and his love were known by all those in his life. George provided stability and security not only to his family, but to those who were fortunate enough to work alongside of him. 

George adds, “I never made big money so I had to work when work was available. This meant that Tory had to be Mom and Dad a lot of the time. I had to make a decision between my family and the community. To do that, I declined nominations and tried to work less whenever the children had something going on.”

His legacy now spans three generations and rests in the heart of his many great grandchildren. Luckily for me, it has reached the heart of his youngest great grandson, my grandson, our little baby Seth.

Rest easy George. You did a wonderful job!