“What we become depends on what our fathers teach us at odd moments, when they aren’t trying to teach us.”

This is part of the DadQuotes series, where I roundup the best quotes from famous figures, insightful authors, and my quickly growing kids, and apply them to the job of parenting.

“I believe that what we become depends on what our fathers teach us at odd moments, when they aren’t trying to teach us.”
– Umberto Eco*

The way you enter the house after a long day of work.

How you respond to a broken toy.

The things you talk about at the dinner table.

The smile you give to the cashier.

Your kids are always watching. Learning from you.

Even when you’re not trying to teach.

Especially when you’re not trying to teach.

Be mindful of everyday opportunities to teach without teaching, to guide without preaching.

Your day-to-day words and actions shape the person your child will become.

*Source: Foucault’s Pendulum (1988). One of my favorite intellectual adventure stories.

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