Others First. Always.: Eric’s parents have a knack for placing the people in their lives well above themselves

Eric Pannell’s parents have quite the superpower. They treat others with kindness and respect, and they are a light in the darkness. They are selfless in their ways, and they show up for others – and each other – each and every day.

“I’ve learned how to show love and kindness to others, which has been a challenge to live up to with how they are able to seamlessly do it,” Eric said. “I’ve learned through them that love and kindness wins over evil and selfishness in every occasion. Which has led to me having the most amazing marriage and friendships in my life because I’ve patterned myself after them. I hear their voice in my head regardless of if I’m faced with challenges or my successes.”

Having parents like Eric does is not something he takes lightly. He knows that not everyone is in the same boat, and he considers himself lucky with how awesome his mom and dad are.

Speaking of which, Eric has certainly learned a thing or two from them… especially when it comes to relationships. His parents are right for each other and they support one another no matter what.

“They’ve always been the north star for me in terms of how marriage should be and look like,” Eric said. “They are each other’s biggest cheerleader and constantly showing relentless love for one another. It shows with how they speak to one another with words of affirmation and encouragement.”

The Pannells have learned a lot about marriage over the years, including sacrifice and compromise, and a lot of people have learned about marriage because of them.

People have also learned what it takes to be exceptional parents as well. These two have set such a benchmark for people to try and reach, and it is certainly a benchmark that is difficult to match.

“Their consistent words of encouragement and support is what makes them amazing parents,” Eric said. “They truly do want to see the best outcome for me as their son and my sister. They love to hear the good news as we reach new heights in our lives, but they are even more of a supporter when we are tasked with difficulties. When I’m having a bad day, I know that with one call to them my issue may not be resolved, but I know I will feel better about how I will approach it.”

Through triumphs and tribulations, the Pannells are there. They are pillars of encouragement, support and love, and the way they pushed their kids throughout the years is certainly appreciated.

And now they get to do the same for their grandchildren, as the Pannells make for the best grandparents. They speak so highly of their grandchildren, and they love getting to spend any time they get with them.

Overall, these two are just a power couple who loves to love. They are each other’s yin and yang, and they are everyone else’s saving grace. They make a whole lot of people’s lives infinitely better, and they are irreplaceable peas in a pod.

“Mom, Dad… I can never repay you for all the things that you’ve done for me. You’re the driving force of who I am and everything that I strive to be in life. Many times, these types of messages are shared at funerals, but I want to thank you while we’re blessed to be alive and talk to one another. Your unselfish love, patience and care for one another has been a challenge to live up to for all these years. But I wake up every day trying to live up to it and it has served me well. I just want you to know that you’re loved and appreciated in the best way that I can. I love you dearly, and thank you so much. I can’t possibly have better parents than you have been to me. I speak for all of us – friends and family – when I say you’re a true blessing to this world. Love your son, Eric.”