“Love doesn’t make the world go round. Love it what makes the ride worthwhile.” – Franklin P. Jones
When Vicki Atkinson first read my book about my beloved father, Finding My Father’s Faith, one of the things she remarked that she loved was the way he described riding on trains when he lived in India.
He was 24 or 25 years old, studying to get a Masters degree from Benares Hindu University. During his school breaks would travel around India third class, sitting on the floor like everyone else, and practicing his Hindi.
I admit I hadn’t thought at length about that aspect of my dad because that was just the guy he was. He didn’t proselytize, mention he was a pastor, or have any agenda – he just liked people. Whether he was golfing, hiking or riding mass transit, my dad enjoyed talking with his fellow travelers in this life.
I mention this because in this week’s podcast, Vicki and I talked with dear friend, marketing man, and creative guru, Eric Knudson about riding the bus.
Eric is a dear friend of mine and a master story-teller. I’ve known Eric for ten years and through the years, he’s regaled me with many stories. I can’t tease out exactly the formula but it’s some combination of his use of humor, timing, and detail that makes him so entertaining to listen to.
He also had the pleasure of knowing my dad and understanding what a whirlwind of energy and good-natured sociability he was.
So in this episode, he brings both his fantastic storytelling and a bit of my dad to a great story about a recent bus ride. It’s hilarious, dramatic, and full of fun. Here’s a sneak peek:
I’m certain you’ll enjoy the scenic and beautiful places we go when we share the power of story.
We know you’ll love it!
Check out the full podcast at: Episode 76: On the Bus with Eric Knudson
(featured photo from Pexels)
Links for this episode:
Vicki’s personal blog: Victoria Ponders
Wynne’s personal blog: Surprised by Joy
Vicki’s recently released book: Surviving Sue
Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith
Surprised By Joy 
your dad sounds like he was an amazing man, and it stands to reason that you didn’t know how amazing for a long while, because to you, he was ‘just your dad.’ I loved Eric’s telling of his take on your dad, and his bus story. hilarious and so well told.
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Oh, you nailed it about my cluelessness about my dad, Beth. Thank you so much for listening to Eric’s story and this lovely comment!
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I agree with Beth and there is so much mystery surrounding our parents. I suppose that is a good thing, but it gnaws at us to know more, and when we know more, we understand better. Tomorrow is the fifteenth year since our dad left us and I have so many questions with no one to ask.
Also, thank you for something to listen to as I drive today… nothing like this past weekend’s adventures, only two hours today (and back). Helping my daughter move, which I suppose is helping me move. Your post makes me think about how we all ‘ride the bus.’ I am looking forward to learning more after my ‘windshield time.’
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Ah, a bittersweet anniversary of your dad’s passing tomorrow. Sending you all my best.
And I love that you are listening on your much shorter drive. Helping your daughter move – you are a good dad. Making the days count!
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I love Beth’s comment…yup. Dick Leon…to you, Wynne…’just dad’. I love all the glimpses of him that you provide. Keep ’em coming. 🥰
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Oh, thank you, dear Vicki! Love these fun episodes with you!
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🥰🥰🥰
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Eric is something and your dad on the floor of the Indiana bus was worth the price of the post by itself. Oh, wait, it was free! I’d have been happy to pay twice as much, Wynne!
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I love this comment, Dr. Stein! Thank you!
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your Dad was really a great man, Wynne!
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Thank you, Cristiana! I really appreciate this comment!
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Many of us think our dads are awesome men, simply because they are our dads, but some dads? They truly are!
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What good fortune to have a dad who loved people and you so much.
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So true, Rebecca!! Thank you for the lovely comment!
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From the stories you tell of your dad, I find him to be an amazing charismatic and loving human. What wonderful stories and lessons he passed on, with humour too.
I’ll look forward to watching Eric’s story later today. 💕
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“with humour too” – you’ve captured him so well, Alegria! Thank you, my friend!
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It’s wonderful to become an adult and suddenly realize there was more to your parents than you realized. Your father seems like one of the proverbial good guys.
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I love this comment, Ally. Yes, it takes some time to realize that, doesn’t it?
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Your father was not only wonderful but what an adventurous life he lived. I just love that image of him on the train floor, mingling with the locals, and building those lifelong memories of connection.
I really smiled and chuckled through your conversation with Eric. People spectating on the bus – and the subway for me too – is always unpredictable and brings surprises with each outing.
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Love the way your dad was brought into this. I’m more like Eric than your dad when it comes to talking to strangers, but I love that people like your dad exist.
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