“Your children watch you more than listen to you”

Haley Brunner and I grew up watching our parents be the glue and source of strength for their extended families. We saw them as individuals and as a couple be the people that others turn to for comfort, guidance, and when there was a celebration to be had. They organized family reunions, volunteered at our school, involved us with their community work, served as mentors, hosted neighborhood parties, supported ageing parents, and so much more.

They always found time to be present and engaged with us and each other while giving their time, talent, and more to others.We watched, and to varying degrees were intimidated by, the scope of our parent’s presence expand across the city as we got older.

But we saw their values, commitments, and priorities remain consistent as our lives changed.We listened a lot too, Haley more than me. But what we observed and experienced from our parents is one of their greatest gifts. 

My parents showed us how to be empathetic, to meet people where they are, and how to appreciate the people closest to you. They valued the memories and relationships in their lives more than a financial metric and encouraged us to do so as well.

I learned that the wealth of a family is multidimensional, and a man’s worth is measured by the love of his family.

Thank you and Happy Birthday Laura Brunner (and Bash) and Paul M. Brunner.