One of the greatest lessons I've learned from my father is compassion for the vulnerable.
He and I grew up differently. His family struggled with bouts of poverty and sometimes relied on government assistance. But, as he would say, that perspective makes him blessed.
Dr. Bob blessed me with some profound life lessons. One, I'll never forget...
In 9th grade, a friend and I came home from school frustrated that our classmate did better than us on a test. They utilized a reading aide, and the teacher granted the student more time.
"They don't need it. It's unfair!" My friend and I snickered jealously and poked fun at the other boy. In our unedified minds, they cheated, and we were victims. We were catty teens, 14 or 15, and our brains were still developing.
Usually very quiet and casual at home, my dad then perked up. It was one of the only times he raised his voice at me. Really.
"Both of you, right now, stop!" he said. "No. You don't know your classmate's situation or disability. They deserve the accomplishment, and it takes a lot of courage to ask for help when you need it. No one is less than you because of they overcame a disadvantage."
My father also studied with monks for a summer in Germany and was taught only to talk when you have something important to say. To him, this was clearly important.
It was one of my first lessons in the fairness of equity, and I never made that mistake again.
