Arnold R. Becker (1925-2011)
The longer I live, the more I begin to notice recurring themes in life. And when these themes repeat themselves enough times, they begin to resemble truth. They begin to make up the characteristics that define life on this planet.
There are two such recurring themes that come to my mind this morning as I remember my grandpa. The first truth that I have become increasingly aware of over my life, is the fact that there really are no truly self-made men. But we all stand on the shoulders of generations past. It is their accomplishments, sacrifice, and legacy that have laid the foundation for our lives today.
The second truth that I have become increasingly aware of in this life is the unfortunate reality that there are too few completely honest men in this world. As a result, they say that an honest man is usually admired… but only if he ever gets noticed.
Over the past several days since my grandfather’s passing, there have been countless fond memories and many kind words shared about his life… about his work ethic, about his ability to bring joy into a room, and about his love for children.
But the memory that will stay with me the longest… the legacy that I believe he has left for me… is found in the fact that my grandfather was an entirely honest man. From beginning to end, and in all aspects of his life, he lived with uncompromisable integrity. He was faithful to his wife. He was committed to his children. I never knew him to sacrifice his character for an easy dollar or a worldly pleasure. He hid no secrets. He valued his integrity above everything else. And lives lived in such a way should never go overlooked or unnoticed.
In a world that has seen far too many lives disgraced and families destroyed by the sins of the father… I am eternally grateful and infintely blessed to have a grandfather who taught my father those same life lessons. Because each of our lives are built on the legacy of those who have gone before.
Oh, that mine would resemble his.
