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