More About Dave
I believe all of us are shaped by several major influences while we are growing up. Early on, this includes our parents, family, and other people close to us. Our activities, choices, and other circumstances around us will also contribute to the formation of our values and character.
As we become adults, the foundations built into our lives will be tested and refined as we choose our own path for the future. For me, there have been several major influences that have helped me greatly.
Major Influences in My Life
1. My Parents
The first major influence in my life came from my parents. My parents were divorced when I was just five, so I have very few memories before then. I was raised in a loving home by my father, and then by my stepmother when they were married several years later. Their patient and loving guidance was always present and I learned so much from them!
Even when I began my downhill slide in my preteen years, my parents were always there with love and support. They instilled in me the values, work ethic, and character traits that were necessary for transition to life as an adult. To this day, I have so many fond memories, like my stepmother’s cooking and piano classes, or my father’s one line, pithy phrases that will remain etched into my memory forever.
2. The Boy Scouts
As a young boy, my parents encouraged me to join the Cub Scouts, and then later the Boy Scouts. These groups also helped greatly in the process of forming healthy social skills and values, which you can see from the following points:
Boy Scout Oath
On my honor, I will do my best
To do my duty to God and my country and to obey the Scout Law;
To help other people at all times;
To keep myself physically strong, mentally awake and morally straight.
Boy Scout Slogan
Do a Good Turn Daily!
The Outdoor Code
As an American, I will do my best to:
· Be clean in my outdoor manners
· Be careful with fire
· Be considerate in the outdoors, and
· Be conservation minded.
Boy Scout Law
A Scout is:
· Trustworthy,
· Loyal,
· Helpful,
· Friendly,
· Courteous,
· Kind,
· Obedient,
· Cheerful,
· Thrifty,
· Brave,
· Clean,
· and Reverent.
Boy Scout Motto
Be Prepared!
3. Mentors
After I became a Christian, I was blessed to have two older men who were my mentors during the first ten years of my Christian walk. They too were patient with me as I learned how to grow as new believer and leader in the church. Their wise counsel, guidance, and loving support provided a great example and strong foundation for my life.
4. Pastors
Over the years, I have been also fortunate to have several pastors who have been a tremendous support and blessing. With loving counsel and wisdom, they helped me during the best and worst of times. Through their example, encouragement, and correction at times, my life and character has been gradually shaped and molded more and more into the image of Christ.
5. My Studies
I decided at a young age that I wanted to be a lifelong learner. This commitment has enabled me to enjoy the awesome influence of a multitude of books, classes, professors, teachers, pastors, and missionaries. Through initiative, an open mind, and a lot of hard work, this had paid off big time in my life!
