We are all the product of our upbringing and our childhood environment.  We either reflect the mirror their mirror image or the antithesis of them.  We hear about it all the time where children of alcoholics either never touch a drop or follow in the exact footsteps of their parents.  The children of horrible parents (and you can define “horrible” in many, many ways) either become horrible parents themselves or learn from the mistakes of their parents and become infinitely better parents themselves.

My thoughts on this were reinforced during my recent (and second) interview with guitar virtuoso, Bruce Kulick, to reflect on his father, Harry, who had recently passed away.  I was struck by Bruce’s obvious undying love and respect that he has for his parents. After hearing what all Bruce had to say about his mom and dad, it’s no wonder why.  They LOVE their boys and instilled in them the values that really count in life. In a world where we hear all too many times about a kid’s tragic upbringing, Bruce’s story was a heartwarming one to hear.

After that interview, I reflected on my own upbringing and how incredibly lucky I was, and am, to have the parents that I have. There was never a time in my life that I ever felt unloved or that they didn’t want anything but the best for me and my sister. They routinely made sacrifices to make sure that we had whatever they felt and knew would be the best for us without turning us into spoiled rotten brats. Often, they would surprise me with gifts or privileges that I never thought I’d have.

In working with my wife in raising our daughter, I often found myself doing the same kinds of things.  I’ve experienced the indescribable joy of doing good things for my daughter and to be able to surprise her from time to time.  And, while some of you may question the “wisdom” of taking to things like a Peter Frampton concert for her sixteenth birthday, I don’t think either of us would trade that experience – or the time together – for anything in the world.

Whether it was Mr. and Mrs. Harry Kulick, Mr. and Mrs. C.W. Patterson or your parents, down deep in their hearts, they’ve poured what they feel is their best of time and treasures in hopes of making us all “rock stars” in our own right.  For that alone, they should always be honored as well as receive our undying love and appreciation.

Thanks, Mom and Dad, for everything.  You “done good”!  I love you!

Written by Randy Patterson
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