From The Tennessean, Friday May 19,1995 

What Dad doesn’t know doesn’t count 

By Sam Bartholomew 

With two kids on the way out of college and more planning to attend, I find myself giving advice as our kids leave the nest. I doubt they pay much attention. But Dad gives it a try: 

• You have a body, possess a soul, and a spirit- look after all three. 

• Don’t burp. chew gum. or spit where anyone can see or hear you. 

• Write a letter to someone at least once a week –writing is still cheaper than a phone call. 

• Always make time for daily prayer and Bible reading. 

• People are more likely to watch your walk than to believe your talk. 

• Have a firm handshake, look them in the eye, speak clearly and say, “yes Ma’am” and “Yes, sir!” 

• Always show up early for marriages and funerals-it does the soul good to sit quietly. Reflect and contemplate. 

• Keep lists of things to do-the world is run by people who make lists. 

• If you can’t say something good about someone, don’t say it. 

• Too much TV stunts your growth. Read a book for fun regularly. 

• You cannot solve everyone else’s problems. 

• While there are two sides to most every issue, your Dad knows which one is right. 

• Manage your time and money wisely-there’s a limited amount of it, and you’ll rarely have too much. 

• Don’t let the sun set on your anger-forgive and move on. 

• Boys’ biggest problem: Girls, Greed and Glory. 

• Girl’s biggest problem: Boys. What to wear, Greed and Glory. 

• All advice is subject to change except God’s. 

• Every child needs irrational love of another human being-help where you can. 

• Polish your shoes. Be polite. And remember table manners are still important. 

• Don’t get too busy for your family. 

• Winners prepare harder for than losers. 

• Never enter into a 50/50 proposition without some way to resolve a split decision. 

• Never have a home mortgage larger than 3 times you income. 

• Join a local church or tithe. 

• The most important book on law, love and life is the bible. 

• Good folks are everywhere, but the south has an unusually large number of them. 

• Don’t be judgmental if you don’t have all the facts. 

• Balance is important in life and in sports. 

• Parents and grandparents are wiser than you currently believe. 

• Negotiate with your father, after a good meal 

• Boys really do like one piece bathing suits. 

• If you need more advice, just ask Dad!