Advocates for Leisure Activities

WHEN IT COMES to believing in the value of leisure activities for individuals and families, and then putting those beliefs into practice, my own dear parents were role models!

To this day, I still remember that Mom and Dad made sure that time was always set aside for fun. They were convinced that this was important for each of us individually; for any two of us together; or, for all three of us as a family unit.

While both of my parents had jobs in addition to taking care of our home during many of my growing-up years, yet they were strong advocates for leisure activities. In fact, they championed these ideals throughout their working lives and on into their retirement years. Their beliefs lasted all the way up to the time of their deaths. Looking back, there is no doubt in my mind, that seeds were planted during those years living of under their roof that led me toward what became my own profession.

Home for our family was always a happy place. During my childhood Mom and Dad made sure that there were always some toys and other items so I could entertain myself, but also plenty of things to do with them. They were also mindful that they themselves needed a break from regular routines and schedules at work.

When I was in junior high and high school, my parents always supported my desire to be involved in extra-curricular activities at school and in community recreation programs. They provided a musical instrument for band, equipment for sports, a bike to ride, and they encouraged me to participate in a wide variety of wonderful and enjoyable activities. Proof of their advocacy for leisure activities was displayed in many ways - including their attendance at games and performances; being proud of my accomplishments; and, even building a basketball court in our backyard! During those years Mom and Dad stayed busy with their own leisure experiences, and we all enjoyed numerous times of fun-filled family activities as well.

In college - and beyond - when I was out of my parents house, it was still great to learn that they were continuing to take advantage of their free time. Whether it was weekends, days off for holidays, or other times away from work, Mom and Dad always had a plan for fun. They never missed a vacation. Often, they took a trip somewhere. Dad always said, "A vacation is important enough to borrow the money - if that is what it takes."

In their own retirement, Mom and Dad completely enjoyed their many opportunities for expanded leisure. They spent a part of one winter in Arizona and nine winters in the Rio Grand Valley of Texas. They also had numerous rendezvous with the three of us (their kids and grand kid) all over the nation - plus a trip to Europe - because of their grandson's generosity. They just gratefully lived their lives to the fullest.

Throughout our nation's history there have been strong advocates for leisure activities. From my up-close and personal point of view, Jim and Ruby Jackson need to be counted among those at the top of the list.