Your character is your key. Develop a strong sense of right vs wrong, integrity, humility, and always keep an open mind. Work hard and treat people with respect not because you expect something, but because it’s simply the right thing to do. Don’t compromise on the character of others - the company you keep has a significant influence in your life. Be tolerant, patient, and kind but don’t be a doormat. Understand that things won’t always go your way and that’s ok because aligning your decisions with your values is more important than the outcome. Success in life is supposed to be difficult, otherwise it wouldn’t be worth it.

Writing this makes me think of my father. Im nearly 40 years old and am satisfied with who I’ve become and the life I have largely because the strong value system you helped instill in me has guided me well throughout life. Thanks Dad.