Part II Summary and Analysis

II - Really Achieving Your Childhood Dreams

4 - The Parent Lottery

Randy felt as if he held the winning ticket for the parent lottery. He stated that his parents were one of the major reasons he was able to live out his childhood dreams. His mother was he "tough, old-school English teacher with nerves of titanium," and his father was a World War II medic. His parents were frugal, and they were dedicated to learning. The children were always encouraged to research.

Randy highly respected his father and quoted him frequently. His mother kept his cockiness in check. His parents were fabulous role models and often showed how to help other people. Randy realized that his own children would not have a father to guide them as they grew up, and as he thought about the situation he realized...