Sometimes I think about my father's last words to me just before he died. Just before he died he said, "Careful son, that shotgun is loaded."

"It is better to ask for forgiveness later...than to ask for permission first"

He didn't tell me that till I was 26.

My father never spoke to me unless it was to criticize. He pushed everyone away and lived a sad bitter life. But I made sure I told him I loved him the very last time I saw him and he said it back for the first time. He died alone. Tragic.

My father was never a father, even when he was around, he wasn't there. I don't recall any advice or anything he's ever given me. He has given me a good example of what not to become though, but I don't feel he deserves credit for doing anything good there.

I was so blessed to have a wonderful father that had so many words of wisdom for me. I can't remember his last words to me because I was just too distraught providing hospice services to him but I do know his very last words were to my mother and he told her he loved her. I still struggle with his death to this day but here are a few gems that will always stick with me:

"If you aren't going to do it right, don't do it at all."
"'Atta boy girl!" (My 3 brothers got the "atta boy boy")
"Work hard and you can accomplish anything you put your mind to."
"Never trust a liar, a cheat, or a thief."
And then there's my favorite... "I'm proud of you and I love you!"

I miss him so.

My Dad was not big on pronouncements or explaining anything. You wanted to know what he thought you would usually have to ask.

He said he was glad how I turned out but he was not taking credit for it.

Thanked me for being his daughter and careing about him.

One time he told me telling someone no was a waste of breath and avoiding people you have to say no to makes life easier.

My dad has always said, "Do your best. That's the only thing anyone can ask of you."

If you be your best YOU, then there's nothing to regret!

"son,if she looks like a cop than she probably is one"