What we learn from our fathers can stay with us far into adulthood, shaping who we are in both obvious and mysterious ways.

We asked our readers and staff members to share some of their favorite dad lessons.

• Hard work will get you far. My father is the hardest worker I’ve ever known. He puts so much effort, time, love and passion into his family and business. You only get out what you put in. Thank you, dad, for everything you have done and continue to do for us. You are amazing. I love you!

• I learned grace. And that people are more important than policy. I also learned you can never have too many ditty bags.

• To work hard. To be thorough and fair. To love and nurture animals.

• Deep empathy for people who are struggling; to feel pain for someone simply because they’re feeling pain, regardless of the situation.

• You are who you surround yourself with. Take responsibility for your actions. Support the passions of those you love, even if you don’t fully understand it. Being a dad is proven by actions not DNA. Cereal for dessert is perfectly acceptable.

• Of all the things my dad has taught me in my lifetime, one of my favorites is how to drive a tractor. He’s always been a talented handyman, and I will continue to look to him for DIY inspiration.

• He taught me and my sister honesty and responsibility. So now if I can’t follow through on things or have to cancel plans I feel super guilty!

• Creativity and a love of animals, especially dogs and horses. He was everything I would look for in a husband.

• My dad is one of the kindest, most open-minded people I know. He’s super smart (SUPER smart) but humble. And friendly. He will talk to anyone. I’ve learned kindness, humility, open mindedness, and patience from him.

• To effect change, one must be willing to get involved. Whether protesting about environmental issues, writing letters to local government, or attending talks and town meetings, he keeps his finger on the pulse of the community and the world at large. He reminds me to step outside my own issues and think about helping others.

• It is an honor he chose me to be his daughter. He taught me to have fun, take risks, travel and not take life too seriously but take parenting seriously. Be silly and random. If there’s no surf, go to the springs. God is nature. Life is good.