The Can-Do Spirit: Honoring My Father's Legacy

Remembering Dad: Lessons in Life and Leadership

John & Dad at the Masters

Honoring Dad

Life's journey is not just about reaching a destination. It's about the moments you experience and the legacy you leave behind. This life lesson certainly hit home for John Cornelsen when his father, John Cornelsen Sr, passed away. 

As John drove around his childhood neighborhood, he thought about their life together and was reminded of the small things that shaped him into the man he is today and how his father made all the difference. Memories like building a small backyard shed together, where his father taught him the importance of measuring twice, cutting once, and paying attention to details, stood out to him. Through these little projects, his father imparted important values like pride in work, teamwork, and thoughtful leadership.

Even the little moments, like walking to church together every Sunday, left an unforgettable impression on John. It wasn't all about the sermons; it was about the sidewalk they wore out from their Sunday treks and the music his father would play and sing while getting ready. John recently wanted to share his love of music with his own children. He carved out 15 minutes daily to learn how to play the piano. After a year, John looks forward to coming home after work, and the first thing he does is sit at the piano and play a song. His twins sit on each side of him as he plays. John's father was always cheerful, even during the most mundane tasks, and this spirit instilled a love of life and music in John's heart. 

John's father was a remarkable man whose legacy exceeded his achievements and accolades. Through these memories, John realized that his father's legacy profoundly impacted his life. His entrepreneurial spirit, meticulous planning, and drive to inspire others were lessons he learned from his father. John Sr's legacy was one of intentional moments and "can-do" spirit that continues to inspire John to this day. John's license plate now reads "Can Do," a tribute to his father's spirit and a reminder to spread that same optimistic spirit wherever his journey may take him. 

John Cornelsen Sr's legacy is a reminder that life is not just about the destination but about the journey, the moments, and the relationships that make it all worthwhile.

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John with Twins at the Piano