Thank you. I was teary eyed during mass for a variety of reasons.
We have 4 children. Our eldest is working with L’Arche. She lives with adults who are mentally retarded. This is a wonderful organization that respects and believes the challenged deserve a life of respect.
Our second child a son is autistic and a challenge but again I realized today what a hero he is —— when the going gets tough he rises to the occasion. When he believes he is misunderstood he lets us know. :)
Son #2 is a cancer survivor who still struggles with self esteem 10 plus years later. But lately is making strides.
Finally, son #3 is the child I never planned on having and he is my heart. He is away getting his diploma because the local high school was an impediment to his learning. When he decided to go to military school it broke my heart. He has been gone for 3 months and sorely missed.
Not only is he missed by his family and friends but our beloved Sir Winston is a mess without him.
Please keep John in your prayers - he is the kid who never liked spending the night away from home with his friends. He misses us but is soaring in his grades and has gained the respect of the military who are part of this program.
Finally, I asked God to forgive me for not always recognizing the gifts I have within my family which also includes 2 older stepchildren who I am proud to have as part of my life.
Thank you too, and God bless you also, and your family!
When you and Conor call it a day, I bet there is a great sense of satisfaction in a day well done. You two are inspirational in your everyday living.
[Mr] T