Father Knows Best
Bergen County residents share their dad’s most memorable advice.
How many times have we heard our fathers tell us to make sure there’s always gas in the car, or received an extra phone call from him warning about an upcoming snowstorm? Perhaps you hear his voice in your head when you double-check the lock on your door at night?
No matter how stoic he may seem, your dad wants what’s best for you, and we’ll all forever treasure the his tidbits of knowledge. Father’s Day is this Sunday and, in addition to surprising him with a great gift, it’s a perfect time to celebrate the lessons only Dad could have taught you.
For our June issue, BERGEN magazine asked residents to share the best piece of advice from their dad. Here’s how 11 responded:
“If something doesn’t work out the way you wanted it to, it isn’t a failure—it’s just a notch of experience in your belt.”
—Gina Marie Agderian, Bergenfield
“Engage the brain before putting the mouth in motion.”
—Jennifer Grabow Brito, Ridgewood
“You are worth what you believe you are worth. Never accept less.”
—Roberta Beehler, Cliffside Park
“All a man has is his word.”
—Tim Conklyn, Emerson
“Believe none of what you hear and half of what you see.”
—Tony Hand, Englewood
“The best advice my dad gave me was ‘Listen to your Mom.’”
—Marisol Kozlovski, Oakland
“Never give up and never let anyone let you down.”
—Gracy Lema, Franklin Lakes
“Family always comes first, and spending time together creates smiles and memories that are greater than any other gift.”
—Valerie D’Amico Martinkus, Franklin Lakes
“I’ll never forget when he said, ‘Always do your best. You’re the only man who I want to do better than me.’”
—Steve Masson, Park Ridge
“One of my favorites: ‘Be nice to the people on your way up, because they are the same people you will meet on your way down.’”
—Amy Mazzarella, Waldwick
“Have a healthy disrespect for authority. People need to earn your respect; it doesn’t come automatically just because they have a title.”
—Susanne Ziskis, Ridgewood
What was the best piece of advice your dad ever gave you? Let us know on Instagram @bergenmagnj.
