A Year Ago Today

Aarons have never been the most photogenic people.

A year ago today, July 7th, I lost my dad unexpectedly. My dad was a solo-practice criminal defense attorney who practiced for over 25 years. Every day he busted his ass for his clients and anyone who asked for his help. He treated others with respect no matter their circumstances. Giving people a second 2nd chance when others wouldn’t he made sure to help them when they needed it most.

Over this last year I have reflected on his memory and searched my thoughts for the best way to honor him. At the same time, I have poured more time into working on my business, something I would have never started without his encouragement and help. As long as I can remember he instilled that spirit of entrepreneurship fueled by his own American Dream. All while working, taking the Bar, and becoming a new parent he was able to start his own Law Firm. Overcoming all of this he was able to support our family and give me every opportunity to achieve my own American Dream.

My own American Dream was a little different leaving Alabama for New York to “make it there.” I’ve had my own share of difficulties since packing up my car with everything I own and leaving for New York seven years ago. Starting my career hasn’t been easy graduating behind a screen thanks to Covid, having to overcome a skin cancer diagnosis while interviewing for my first promotion, and at the ending the first full year of my new role I lost my dad. I can’t lie trying to balance a 9-5 and 5-9 on top of a 3-hour commute hasn’t been easy, but I want to make sure I can look back on this time and know my dad is proud of what I have accomplished.

While I can’t tell my dad thank you for all his hard work and the example he set, I can try my best to show it to others.