"My Dad Could Beat Up Your Dad, But He Wouldn't"

Have you ever had someone in your life that shows you how to live without saying many words? You're actually shaped by the lack of their words. They lead by their example. These people are few and far between, but I was fortunate enough to be raised by one of these people.

Some of you probably guessed who I'm talking about. My dad.

My dad has the strongest work ethic of anyone I know, and, even if I think hard, I can't ever remember him talking bad about anyone. He doesn't offer up advice, but whenever I ask for it he gives me an excellent answer. He's always there when I need him.

I live many miles from my dad, but this summer I had the opportunity to ride about 1,000 miles with him.

My dad trained hard for the journey and helped me keep a pace that stayed around 20 mph. Before I told him about this mission I had in mind, he never even owned a bike. He rode with me through the toughest areas. His first day, we climbed 5,000 feet in about 20 miles.

Many don't know this, but he missed our Davenport meet and greet because he was in the hospital with kidney stones. That didn't stop him, though. He was back on the bike the next day.

I have been very fortunate to have been raised by a quiet, but confident man. My sisters and I always loved the song "My dad could beat up your dad, but he wouldn't".