The picture to the left is Patrick, Aaron, and Dave Johnson, Aaron's mentor at Mount Bachelor Academy. He's sending Aaron and Patrick out on an overnight hike and camp out. Dave's giving the boys "their work". The result was the beginning of absolute success in building an unbreakable bond of brotherhood.Cathy and I took a walk today before picking out a Christmas tree this afternoon. The crisp, clear day is refreshing. Twenty four degrees feels comfortable. On the last day of fall, we've adjusted to winter. Its easier to adjust to winter with the right equipment: jacket, hat, boots, and mittens.
Walking in the squeaking snow, Cathy and I talked about our feelings. The same way you can be comfortable in cold weather, our hearts are warm in deep sorrow. We are sincerely grateful for compassion and tenderness; ours, Patricks, and others.
We picked up our tree from Capaul's Tree Farm. Aaron was a student in Mr. Capaul's English class at DeForest High School and did some work on the tree farm a few summers ago. Once Aaron and his friend Erik did a "persuasion speach" presentation for Mr. Capaul's class. I think they created a classic, teenage boys creative approach to a simple assingment. The Persuasive Speaking presentation these guys made was sort of a How-To video on getting phone numbers of girls. I never saw the video, but I recall they went to East Towne Mall and video taped their efforts. Cathy remembers she thought the idea was inapropriate. A note Aaron left, and Cathy cherishes, says the teacher approved. "...P.S. Mr. Capaul LOVED the persuasion speach!!"
Teachers like Mr. Capaul inspired Aaron to write, speak, and use his creativity. I'm grateful for all the people, (and there are many from here to Oregon and Idaho) whom Aaron met and who brought out his best character. Memories of their gifts to our son are so comfortable to our hearts and minds. These kind of memories are the right equipment to wear in the long season of mourning.
Living a Blessed Christmas Season,
Tom
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