The Parable of the Teargas Grenade
Jun 15th, 2008 by kcren
One thing I learned watching my father was the importance of teaching your children. My dad did this in a relaxed way in day-to-day conversation, more formally around the dinner table, and sometimes by issuing logical or theological challenges that left us thinking—and talking.
My father has a great command of words as well as ideas, which made for quick, memorable lessons. I remember many of these, but my favorite (which I’ve shared with others many times) is the “Parable of the Teargas Grenade.” Perhaps this was most meaningful because it was true, funny, and applied to my situation with laser-targeted accuracy.
As I prepared to leave for my mission, I found I had an extra $1500 sitting in a low-interest bank account and wondered if I should invest it somewhere. But what would give the best return with low risk? I quickly thought of diamonds. What a great idea! They were appreciating steadily at 10% per year, and a diamond for an engagement ring was sure to come in handy sometime after my missionary service.
I shared these thoughts with my father. He sat quietly for a few moments, thinking, displaying no visible reaction. Then he spoke:
When I was in the military in basic training, somehow I got hold of a teargas grenade. And because I had it, I was dying to use it. The first chance I had I pulled the pin, and I cried a lot. I cried a lot more than I would have if I’d waited for a better opportunity.
That was it.
I didn’t buy the diamond.
On this Father’s Day, I remember you and all you taught me, Dad, and I express my deep appreciation for your timely and appropriate insights. I try to do the same in my family now. Some of my lessons are original, but some I just pass along at the right time, from you to them.
Happy Fathers Day!
