John Richard Hodge
Today, a mantle was passed to me. An extraordinary point in life when a mentor passes an office to a student.
That ‘office’ as the senior surviving male of the Hodge family is now mine.
It’s an extraordinary thing. I’ve been so concerned with the future. For my children. For their children, the eldest of whom turned 20 only yesterday. And, we have cause to think hard about the choices we make today that impact their future.
But today, I reflect instead on what has been handed to me. A lifetime legacy created by a man of quiet demeanour, deep value and humble nature.
I can no longer look to my elders for guidance. I realise now, I am that elder.
There’s a lightness and simplicity to the legacy now in my custody. For the things that matter in the future are the things that matter now. Are the same things that mattered when dad received the mantle from his father.
Be true to thyself and seek the truth in others.
Be honest, open and forgiving.
Work with others to make things happen with care for the consequences.
Do what you say you will.
Show respect, for you do not know what other’s carry with them today.
Vale John Richard Hodge (23 February 1931 – 11 September 2020)
A fine man. My dad. Done good.
#ThisCentury #culture #governance #values #management