The Fanny Pack of Life
Before you were buying fanny packs at Target, my dad was wearing them around town. This was 100% horrifying, and we told him so. (He even had a leather one for fancy occasions!)
If you knew Steve Russell, you knew a great guy. A state-champion track runner, West Point guy, and Purdue fan. A real estate broker, owner, educator. He was also my dad.
In June of 2016, on the eve of Father’s Day, my non-smoking Dad succumbed to lung cancer. He fought a tough, 17-month battle—full of bucket-list achievements and meaningful conversations. The timeliness of his death actually came as a big blessing, giving that holiday even more meaning to me. It has been six insanely fast, yet forever-long years without him.
As I reflected on his life and cleaned out the contents of his fanny pack, I realized that he was always teaching me something:
Fanny pack: Always be ready to serve. When both hands are free, you’ve got them available to hold, lend, help. Also, never be concerned with a certain look—stay functional, active, available (even if it means bucking current fashion trends)!
Wallet: Be willing to give your time, talents, and resources. This community needs all of us to survive and thrive. Set aside money to help others. Set aside time to help others. Use your God-given gifts to help others.
Tube glasses: (Literally slim glasses that slide into a tube and fit in the fanny pack. HA!) Think about your perspective on things. Then, step back and realize there are two sides to every story. Listen before you speak. Think before you speak.
Small notepad: Plan, dream, and prioritize. Never stop learning.
Breath mints: Love, be ready to give kisses. This world hurts for a lot of people. Lean in. Ask questions. Give hugs.
Flashlight: Get outside, enjoy God’s creation. There’s nothing better for your soul than fresh air and no screens!
Watch: Be punctual. Show respect for others by simply respecting their time. Be dependable.
There were so many other things Dad taught me about life: Always be prepared. Never stop learning. Take the grocery cart back inside the store. Have an abiding faith. I’m so grateful for the 34 years we had together.
“I am with you always.”
Kelly says
Well now I’m a big mess of tears. Love you, sister.
Stacy says
🙂 Happy tears. Tears worth crying 😉
Carmen says
I think you got your talent for writing from your Dad! I’m sure he is very proud of all his grown up kids. I love what you wrote about him. Brings back memories. So many good memories . I think what I remember the most, at this moment, was his generosity and how intelligent he was. And he always was joking around! He loved his family. I wish he could have had more years with you all…. ( and me). Truly you are blessed because of him and how his life influenced so many people…. All we can do now is be grateful and keep the faith . I know he loved and served the Lord..
Carmen says
ps. I love the Bonaire pic!
Stacy Grove says
Best trip ever!