Nothing was really so important to my father as the achievement of selflessness. He rarely mentioned it directly, but tried to guide us to it in a roundabout way.
The author reflects on the profound influence of his father's values, particularly the ideal of selflessness. Although he did not openly discuss this principle, his father sought to instill it in his children through subtle guidance rather than direct instruction. The emphasis on selflessness shaped the author's upbringing and perspective on personal values.
This emphasis on selflessness highlights a broader theme of family and moral development, illustrating how important values can be passed down through indirect lessons rather than explicit teachings. The father's approach serves as a reminder that actions and behaviors often communicate values more effectively than words alone.