Words by Chris Jankulovski
With Father’s Day on the horizon, we find ourselves on the brink of a powerful emotional journey. As the author of “Near Death Lessons” I’ve walked this path and discovered firsthand the life-altering wisdom that awaits us. From my diagnosis of VHL(Von Hippel-Lindau- a rare, genetic multi-system disorder) to the profound loss of my father, these experiences have left an indelible mark on my soul. Through it all, I’ve come to understand the immense value of gratitude, the transformative power of being present for our loved ones, and the artistry involved in crafting enduring memories. As we approach Father’s Day, let’s reflect on these lessons and embrace the opportunity to celebrate the remarkable role of fathers, honor our own fathers, and cultivate the precious connections that make life truly meaningful.
Gratitude is a powerful emotion that allows us to appreciate the precious moments we have with our family and loved ones. Having faced the brink of mortality multiple times, I’ve learned never to take my existence and presence for granted. I’m constantly overwhelmed with gratitude for being here for my kids, my wife, and everyone involved in my life. It’s a fascinating experience to recognize the fragility of life and embrace the opportunity to be present and cherish those we hold dear.
I also can’t help but feel grateful for my own father, who passed away seven years ago. His unwavering support throughout my entrepreneurial journey, especially towards the end of his life, remains etched in my memory. I cherish the moments we shared and his encouragement in my triumphs. It’s a reminder that even in his absence, his influence continues to shape my perspective on fatherhood and the importance of being there for my children.
My family, consisting of my wife and sons, has played a pivotal role in grounding me and putting life into perspective. Amidst the pursuit of success and ambitious goals, it’s easy to become consumed by work. However, my family serves as a constant reminder that they are the foundation of all that I do. I’m immensely grateful for their presence, as it allows me to unplug from the demands of my world and fully engage with them.
No matter how much we achieve or contribute to society, neglecting our family’s well-being is a fundamental mistake. Fatherhood has taught me that our primary responsibility is to look after our families, ensuring their happiness, security, and support. By placing our loved ones at the forefront, we can build a strong foundation from which we can positively impact the wider community.
Facing my mortality has propelled me to make conscious decisions about how I spend my time. Time is our most valuable resource, and we must optimize it to create meaningful memories with our loved ones. Planning and scheduling activities become essential in ensuring that magic moments happen. If we don’t make time for these experiences, we may wake up one day to find that our children have grown and those opportunities are lost.
As a driven entrepreneur with businesses in different countries, balancing work and family has been a challenge. However, I’ve come to understand that my family matters most. They provide me with grounding, allowing me to serve them and appreciate the true essence of life. Father’s Day is a reminder that before handing over the accomplishments of my career, my family’s well-being and happiness are paramount.
Father’s Day is a powerful reminder for us as men to reflect on the lessons that life has taught us about gratitude, the value of family, and the creation of unforgettable memories. Whether we have children of our own or we think about our own fathers, this is a moment to pause and appreciate the profound impact that family has on our lives. As fathers, we are willing to sacrifice everything to ensure the well-being of our loved ones. It is through our families that we find grounding, purpose, and the opportunity to serve them wholeheartedly. They bring clarity to our priorities and help us shape a life that is truly meaningful and rewarding.
Happy Father’s Day to my own Dad, who we lost in 2010.
