My Father, His Wealth and Values
Often, conversations about one's father revolve around his financial status. In my case, my father's wealth is both complex and inspiring. While he may not have an extravagant fortune, his contributions to society and personal values have made him one of the richest men I know in a different way.
Financial Contributions to Society
My father is quite charitable, donating over a couple of million dollars annually to various political parties and non-profit organizations. His support ranges from Democrats and Republicans to the Green Party, the Police Union, the Sheriff Union, and the Firefighters Union. Despite this substantial financial contribution, he does not get anything in return, nor is it a requirement for his work. He identifies as someone who works because he loves his job, not because he has to.
Work Ethic and Personal Values
Despite his financial success, my father chooses not to retire and indulge in leisurely activities like golf or sailing all year round. He is in his late 40s and could easily afford to do so, but he continues to work because he genuinely enjoys his job. His dedication to work is a result of his personal values and a deep sense of fulfillment derived from his role in society.
Family Background and Personal Beliefs
My father, named Ramavhandra Rao Desisetti the Great, came from a background where his grandfather had two wives. After serving his community for 18 years, he received all the property. He began his career as a helper in the Electricity Board (EB), earning a minimum of 10 rupees per day, but never once showed signs of corruption. Remarkably, my father is known for his honesty, even when others, such as the Reddys or Naidus, attempted to offer him financial benefits.
Despite his financial success, my father never sought to amass wealth or use his influence for personal gain. He is often generous with his staff, offering them just coffee or tea if they request anything more. This kind of honesty and integrity have been passed down through the generations. My father's younger siblings and I have all followed in his footsteps, leading simple and practical lives. We stand in government and private schools, and he even earned a Ph.D. in education. Interestingly, while my brothers and sisters are well-established in government jobs, I have chosen to live a straightforward life, guided by my own decisions.
Even though my father has strict values, he has never tried to control me. Despite coming from a background of adversity and poverty, he has ensured that I have had a good education, leading me to earn my and Ph.D. in education. My life is a testament to his wisdom and guidance, following a path that stands in stark contrast to most traditional notions of success.
Through his life and my experiences, we see the value of hard work, integrity, and a strong sense of community. My father's contributions to society, his work ethic, and his personal values have all contributed to a rich and fulfilling life, one that is truly beyond the conventional measure of financial wealth.