Those of you who knew both my parents probably would think that it was my Mom who was instrumental in my becoming a lawyer. But you would be wrong – it was my Dad. As I was beginning my senior year in college, I had no clue what I wanted to do upon graduation. In talking to my Dad one weekend, he said “Why not just take the test for law school?” So, I decided to do that. And when it turned out that I did pretty well on it, Dad said “Why not just apply to law school?” So, I decided to do that. And when I got into a number of law schools, Dad said “Why not just go to law school?” So, I decided to go to do that, beginning New York University School of Law in 1978 upon graduating from college. And my Dad and Mom paid for it all, which, when I was older, I realized was pretty incredible.
Although I did not know it at the time, my going to law school was one of the best decisions I ever made. It was the first step in what turned out to be a very successful professional career and a resulting very comfortable life. So, my Dad really is responsible for my professional success and all the benefits that have come from it. I think I did tell him that at some time and thank him for all that he had done for me my whole life, but I am not certain. So, just in case, I told him last night in the wee hours of the morning in one of what has become my nightly talks with him, with me looking up to heaven (since I know he is there). And I am telling him now. “Thanks Dad! Thanks for all you did for me and for the wonderful memories that I hold in my heart. In particular, thank you for giving me my love to dance and for all the dances through all the years. I love you a lot and will miss you forever.”
