My relationship with my dad hasn’t always been smooth. He cast a big shadow growing up. Tenacious worker. Big personality. Serial Entrepreneur. He made his own way.

It’s tough to follow in those footsteps. They are as unique as his fingerprints.

Over my 25 years as a marketing man, I’ve made it my business to study human nature. How individuals and groups work, think, and act. Once I became a dad about 12 years ago, I included myself in my study of humanity.

It’s amazing what you find when you look in the mirror…and the face of your child. That face is the most honest reflection of yourself there is.

In my son’s eyes I can see the effects of my actions on him and those around me. He’s made me want to become a better man, and he remains my life’s greatest motivation.

When I began looking at myself in earnest. I could also see my father. His struggle to be a better man, the best dad he could be.

He was not blessed with the best of role models. Born in the Warsaw Ghetto at the dawn of the Nazi invasion. Growing up in post WWII Germany and developing a thick skin.  Immigrating to America as a plumber, and later driving a cab in NYC to pay for his education as a mathematician.

This background does not create a “New Age” father. But it does teach survival, persistence, and intense love and loyalty for family and friends. Pretty good stuff.

No, things were not always smooth growing up. But looking into the mirror today, I can honestly say that my dad stands side by side with my son as the best teachers a man could ever have.

Happy Father’s Day dad…and to all the fathers who love their children as much as mine has me.

Posted by: Steve Banis

A complete “irrational obsession” with your happiness.

Arranging events and handling all the details

Personal shopping

Providing and obtaining all sorts of help for your projects

Ensuring you look your best and are well fed

Provides words of encouragement…and valuable constructive criticism

Evaluates potential partners and offers an honest opinion

Picks up your dry cleaning, does your laundry, and drives you where you need to go

Carries you around for up to 9 months or more when you can’t take care of yourself

Is elated with your victories and devastated by your defeats

Knows you better than you do

Loves you unconditionally

Thanks mom.

Posted by: Steve Banis