“DJS - LBH. That’s a long way from Geneva, Indiana.” I wear this on my wrist. The initials are those of my Dad and my Uncle Larry. They are the two most influential men in my life.
Dad and Uncle Larry were childhood friends, they grew up in Geneva, Indiana and married sisters. I grew up in Geneva, Indiana. Many of the lessons and values I learned came from them and my growing up in Geneva, Indiana.
They both grew up in that small northeast Indiana community. One stayed and made a difference. The other moved to the Indianapolis area and made a difference. Both were known for being reliable, honest and dedicated to helping others. Both were educators, coaches, church leaders, community leaders, but most of all dedicated to their families.
I learned about friendship from them. I learned you can love another person as you love your siblings. I have been blessed to have that friendship with my college and long-time running buddy.
From their dedication to their families, friends and communities, I learned that my purpose is to be reliable and do what I can to help the people I care about.
I learned from them, that service to others is a higher calling than our society values, but is its own reward. I learned that selflessness is an important part of being a good spouse and dad. I learned that giving has more rewards and stories are the essence of friendship.
I learned that the simple phrase, “That’s a long way from Geneva, Indiana” that my Uncle would say whenever I shared a proud moment of officiating at Hayward Field or other self-proud event, meant more than just a statement. It was congratulatory for an achievement; it was a reminder to be humble because we came from a small Midwest town that was more impressed by the size of your corn or soybean harvest than your personal accomplishments. And finally, it was a reminder that this small town was the foundation of the character and values we each possess.
DJS, 5/95; LBH, 7/24. best friends together again.
