“Remember who you are, and Whose you are.” — My mother, Sarah Campbell

“You’re no better, nor less, than anyone else. But treat everyone else as if they are better than you.” — My father, Wayne Campbell

 

My parents have given me lots of great advice over the years, some of which I have actually listened to, and I’ve actually attempted to apply some of that to my life. 

My mom’s advice to remember who I am and who I belong to was meant to influence me to be on my best behavior, and understand that my actions reflected well or poorly on both my parents and my God. 

My dad’s advice on how to treat others was rooted in understanding that I am of immeasurable worth because I belong to God, and I should treat others incredibly well — to honor them, myself, and God. If I don’t treat them well, then I am dishonoring them, myself, and God.

My parents have taught me (or tried, at least) to have strong faith in God, to be loyal to family, to take care of my health, to not waste time with bad literature or entertainment but to enjoy the good stuff, to work hard and rest well, and to always work to be better at every part of my life. 

As I write this, it’s my dad’s 80th birthday. My mom will celebrate her birthday two weeks from today. She’ll be 82, and they are both grateful that God has blessed them with such long lives so far. My brother and sister and I are grateful, too. Mom and Dad, aka Grammar and Poppa, also are deeply loved by in-laws, grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. Plus there’s at least one dog that loves them to death. 

I have thought a few times about what I would say about my parents at their memorial services, should I live longer than they. I haven’t spent a lot of time thinking about it, but it has crossed my mind. When it does, I can’t think of anything I would say then that I haven’t said already. And I am glad for that.

I have told them repeatedly how much I love, respect, and appreciate them, and I will continue to do that as often as I can. I have thanked them for being good parents, good teachers, and pointing me to Christ with the consistent lives they lead. 

I have had lots of regrets in life. I don’t know many people who have not had some, at least. I try not to get hung up on any of them. I have asked forgiveness for everything I am aware of that I have done against someone else, and if I become aware of something more, I’ll seek forgiveness there, too. There are lots of things I wish I had done better, and many ways I hope to be a blessing to others today and in the future. 

But no matter what remains to be done when this life is over, I will have no regrets about making sure my loved ones know that is exactly what they are — loved. 

If I am a good man today … if there is conviction and holiness and something in me to be admired or appreciated … you can guarantee it came because of God Himself, and was most likely instilled in me by two godly parents. 

So, happy birthdays, Mom and Dad! I love you both and am beyond grateful to be your son. 

Editor Brett Campbell can be reached at brett.campbell@dailyleader.com