appreciation

by Joan Pokross Curhan

AN APPRECIATION

In Fall 1992, I embarked with my parents on a fascinating journey-the

creation of my father's memoirs. Before the journey could begin, it

took months of persuasion to convince my father that others would be

interested in reading his memoirs. The clincher was Sam and Ben, his

twin grandchildren, then age 1. Realizing that they would never know

him in quite the same way as have Jenifer and Jared, his older

grandchildren, he agreed to be interviewed and to commit some

thoughts to paper. From this modest beginning, the project grew and

grew as Dad recollected events from his past that were meaningful to

him. It is my hope that grandchildren, great grandchildren, and even

the great-greats will enjoy these memoirs of a very special life -

one that truly has affected so many.

Inevitably, there were times when Dad and I remembered some facts a

little differently, and usually, his was the correct version. It is

remarkable, as he approaches age 88, how sharp his memory is, and how

he is forever ready to tackle new problems, even as our sessions

often extended past midnight. And, working with us on these

occasions, my mother always seemed to have exceptional energy and

insight in helping us meet the next challenge.

My mother's role in Dad's story should not be underestimated. Truly,

she is the essential ingredient that facilitated many of my father's

contributions to the family, community, and legal profession. Her

encouragement and selfless support afforded my father the latitude to

pursue his many goals and activities.

As one passage grew from the next, so did my appreciation for my

father. I saw even more distinctly how his many fine values - his

wonderful generosity, his sense of fairness, his love for the family,

and his interest in the community - have had a profound effect on his

children and grandchildren.

Although I am weary of working on memoirs night after night and for

endless weekends, I am glad that we traveled on this journey

together. Above all, I am even more convinced that I am blessed with

two of the most remarkable parents, who, at ages 87 and 81, are still

going strong.

Joan Pokross Curhan November 1994