It was because of my father that I eventually became a software engineer. I learned Basic, and how to use a modem, when most kids were just playing games on their Atari systems.
We never had Atari. We didn’t have a normal TV. We had a Heathkit. I learned that it was okay to build things and make things and not have what everybody else had. I’m so good at putting together IKEA stuff.
I learned how to drive . He took us to parking lots and put empty cups out for us to drive over and around, to learn where our car and tires were. He was a very patient teacher. I learned to be calm when teaching someone else how to drive.
I learned how to feel special. I’m pretty sure each of us kids felt special, and my dad had figured out some trick that worked for all of us.
I learned how to cook in a wok, catch a fish, and water ski.
I learned not to take things for granted, because he died young, and you never know how things will work out.