.332 | to 4 Important Women, from Todd

I am far from perfect or great, but I am a better evolved male thanks to these women:

My mother Patricia was the single parent who raised me and my sisters for most of our formative years. Purely by observation and in a laissez faire way, she taught me about working hard to provide for her family, with few complaints. She was dedicated to her jobs, rising in responsibility through skill, wit and a tenacious will to do better. I learned about taking personal responsibility for one’s success and failures, how to roll with the punches life throws at you, and how to make a decent cocktail.

My maternal grandmother Eleanor was my family’s strong backstop. She taught me about devotion to family, the importance of education, performing arts and artists, and the joy of travel, all without a formal discussion or lesson plan.

My wife Laurie has taught me about true love, compassion, charity, friendship, activism, and relationships. Her lessons have been given, and usually welcomed, on a weekly basis for the past 34+ years.

And my daughter Stephanie first taught me how to be a better father and caregiver, and as an adult, I’ve learned from her the importance of addressing climate change and being more open minded.

Each of these women has my eternal gratitude for molding me into the imperfect, but better man I am with other humans, animals and our environment. Thank you.