How to Build a Life

Nearly 4 decades ago, my father lifted his glass in celebration of my marriage, admonishing us to remember that there are three things that bring contentment and meaning to life, Family, Faith and Work. I can’t remember precisely the order of his sequence, but Dad, being of Cincinnati German extraction, probably put work first on the list. But we, his children, knew these three pillars held equal value and enabled him to exude joy,?even though he experienced the trials of his generation, which included The Depression and World War II.

So I had to smile at an event yesterday featuring Harvard Business School professor, Arthur C. Brooks and Oprah Winfrey discussing their new book “Build the Life You Want“.

In the quest for happiness, the dynamic duo recommended focusing on four things, Faith, Family, Work and Friends.

I don’t know how, but they must have met Art Denterlein!

If my dad missed adding friends to the list, it was only an oversight. On his many visits to Boston with my mom, he enjoyed nothing more than telling corny jokes at various gatherings with my friends, one of whom is the fabulous Lois Roach .

I wish he could see her latest achievement, directing Lorraine Hansberry’s Raisin in the Sun for the New Repertory Theatre . Through Lois’ eyes, we witness even more of all that is rich and profound in this play. In her production, the women characters have a strength that matches the intensity we remember from Sidney Poitier’s portrayal of the lead character.?Lois does not see these women as acolytes in the drama. Through the outstanding performances of her actors,?Lois places these women center stage.

It’s not because the New Repertory Theater is 10 minutes away from my home that I hope it finds a way to thrive. It’s because this theater produces meaningful and important work.

So, today, I lift my glass to Lois, Oprah, Professor Brooks and…Dad.