The Embarrassing Fence Job: A Father and Son’s Humbling Lesson in Integrity
In the world of parenting, embarrassing moments can happen to the best of us. For me, a recent incident with a fence job turned into a painful lesson on ethics and the importance of integrity. This isn’t just about the failings of one or the other, but a father and son’s experience that teaches us both valuable lessons.
A Pleasant Summer Job
During the summer, my dad received a call from a man who needed a privacy fence installed for his in-ground pool. With teenaged kids and the need for family privacy, as well as the state legal requirement for such installations, the opportunity seemed perfect. My dad, being an experienced handyman, provided an estimate backed by the cost of materials.
After giving the client his estimate, my dad promptly called again two days later to schedule the start date. The job, involving digging post holes, attaching panels, and installing brackets, required dedicated work, especially during the scorching summer months. With me helping as much as I could, my dad's efficiency astounded me, even finishing the job in less than 2 days. An invoice was written and left on the client's back door, leaving much to be desired in the way of communication.
A Long Wait and a Stolen Episode
Weeks passed, and then two. One day, my dad and I stopped by the client's house to follow up on the payment. The client greeted us warily, insisting that he didn't need to pay anything because my dad hadn’t signed the contract and was therefore not obliged to start the job. The situation quickly escalated, turning polite into heated. My dad tried to remain calm but I, in my anger, let out a torrent of words. As I recall, my dad calmly told me to calm down, recalling a past incident where I had been charged with assault. We left in a strained silence.
Lessons Learned
That night, my dad and I sat together, pushing the dust and heat away for a moment. My dad eased us both back into a state of calm, recalling why he had insisted we leave earlier. His pointed reminder that I had a history of violence and the impact of my actions on our relationship made me realize that communication and respect are key, even when things get heated. Though I am no longer active in the scheme of things, the incident is still etched in my mind as a testament to the power of integrity.
The Importance of Integrity and Ethical Business Practices
For my dad, it was a reminder of the ethical side of business – accepting payment for services rendered is not just a legal requirement but an expected business practice. For me, it was a lesson on managing my temper and the importance of verbal communication.
A Talented and Doting Father
Though the incident casts a shadow over the job, the experience has given me a deeper appreciation for my father. His efficiency and knowledge of construction are admirable, and his patience in dealing with such a volatile situation is nothing short of commendable.
Conclusion
In the world of parenting, this incident was both an embarrassment and a wake-up call. It underscored the importance of ethical business practices, integrity, and the power of communication. While the situation was embarrassing, it served as a valuable lesson that would stick with us for years to come.