The graduate

AndreaMy baby, Andrea, is graduating on Saturday. Should be kindergarten, but they tell me she’s finishing high school. (Cue orchestra: “Sunrise, Sunset”)

I look at the amazing, confident young woman she is today, and I try to remember how we got here. A rough start: born a month early, congenital heart murmur, jaundice. When she started school, we were baffled by what we later learned is called selective mutism; Andrea wouldn’t talk at school. Away from school, no problem. But once she passed the outer gates, silence reigned.

This is the girl who takes the lead in plays, performs in musicals and sings solos like she’s been doing it all her life.

Andrea draws people to her like moths to a flame. Even during her silent years, she was extremely popular at school. She is sweet and kind and caring, not wanting to hurt anyone’s feelings.

OK, so I’m a proud papa. I won’t go on and on. I’ll just say: congratulations, sweetie. Your mom and I have been proud of you every day of your life. We love you and look forward to seeing you continue to blossom and grow.

2 thoughts on “The graduate

  1. Rafael G. Sustaita

    Savor each moment, Tim. It gets even better. Wait til they call you “granpa!” Congratulations to you and yours too, my friend for the great parents you’ve been.

  2. Harland

    Yes, we tend to look back and remember the Lord’s blessings related to overcome obstacles and lights at the end of tunnels. But I’m also sure that you remember outings in parks, family reunions, playing in the back yard, family nights, ….. which have reinforced the family bonds daily. May y’all enjoy your special weekend as another of those times when we are especially thankful to be family–as God has blessed. We share with you–one layer removed.

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