Values - how did you get yours?

Over the weekend, I have been pondering the values, that I have learned from my parents.

You see, I was in the audience last week, when a senior leader at work, talked about how he came to be, where he was. It was brilliant, captivating and emotional.  I have never been more affected by a presentation in my life. It really was quite something.

He talked about his parents as his heroes and explained their values. Simple and beautiful.

It made me reflect on my journey and how I had become "me".

It also made me ask my sister for her insights. As our parents clearly had passed on their values to us.

Tonight at dinner, my two friends and I discussed this. It's a great conversation.
We all had different insights. All lovely, but very different.

So what values did your parents pass on to you?

Here is my first stab at mine.

Dad.
Right and wrong. He taught me the difference and showed me that doing the right thing was best.
Balance. He taught me to indulge, yet work hard.
Respect. Listen to other people and suspend judgement.
Commitment. If you say you are going to do it. Do it.

Mum.
Adventure. Go far and do crazy things. Think big. Be bold.
Empowerment. It's up to you. Make your own choices.
Optimism.  Life is good. Things could always be worse. Positive thinking at all times.
Care. Always look after people and nurture friendships.

So that's my folks. I wonder what they think of them? Are they proud when they see that? Is this what they set out to teach? Are they content when they see their life works come to this? How did they inherit these vales? Were they also passed on?

I also wonder what my kids will write about us one day.

I think I would be pleased, if the list was just like this one.

Let's see.