fully appreciating

Last night, I discovered my grandfather's dissertation he wrote in 1965 while studying Animal Breeding at Texas A&M. I am eager to read it, and, in doing so, learn a bit more about this man whom I admire so much.

I was reflecting on the tragedy that children and young people lack an appreciation for things which are extraordinary. Granddad died six years ago, and I am just now discovering this dissertation that he, no doubt, spent hours and hours of his life and energy upon.

I wish that I could have appreciated it when I was younger, and when he was still alive. I feel as though I have a unique connection to him as I myself am in the early stages of a doctoral program, and could understand more and appreciate more the significance of what he accomplished in that paper. ​

I really want to instill in my kids, as much as is possible, to fully appreciate people and accomplishments that are unique, remarkable, and outstanding; I want them to appreciate people, especially, before they are gone from this earth forever.