High School Graduation - Life's Milestones
Hello, again, glad to visit once more. My mind is quite active this Saturday morning as I practice being an 'empty-nester.' The family, Lauren and Patrick, were both in town but involved with more important, social commitments. The other members, Sam and Charlotte(my cats) are doing what they do best, sleeping. So it's time to share some thoughts.
First, and most important, I am quite proud of my son graduating from Glenbard West High School last evening. He endured a poorly executed ceremony unfortunately, but overall will remember this occassion for it's true value as a major milestone. Patrick graduated in the middle of his class with an average grade point. Considering how he made A's and B's in the 7th semester of school, when the pressure for college admittance was on, I believe he may have viewed the academic aspects of high school with less focus and effort than he was able to give. But, considering the major turmoil in his freshman year, namely my divorce situation, I feel his experience at Glenbard West was successful. Only now, I wish Patrick understands that the philosophy of 'doing enough to get by' will not work at the college level. Academic competition only gets greater, it never gets easier. I pray Patrick adjusts quickly to the freedom and independence of college life and, from day numero uno, hits the books hard.
Other sidenotes include some interesting highlights. My discussions about helping the Glenbard West High School varsity basketball team continue. I'm not sure where they will direct me, but I sure do need something to fill this awful void that is quickly bearing down on me. Word from Stuart about my Mom is she's having more frequent severe coughing episodes which indicate the cancer continues to advance. God, do I fear what's in store for her last few days and hours. Cancer is ugly, no matter what unfolds. My Dad's health continues to also be more fragile. This waiting for death is tough business, for all of us.
Speaking of health, mine is out of whack right now as well. On Monday at 7am, I meet with a surgeon to discuss my pending hernia surgery. I am hurting when I run and it is not fun. Better to get fixed than waste more time thinking about it!
So ends the latest 'Rambling'. Peace. Out, Ricky
First, and most important, I am quite proud of my son graduating from Glenbard West High School last evening. He endured a poorly executed ceremony unfortunately, but overall will remember this occassion for it's true value as a major milestone. Patrick graduated in the middle of his class with an average grade point. Considering how he made A's and B's in the 7th semester of school, when the pressure for college admittance was on, I believe he may have viewed the academic aspects of high school with less focus and effort than he was able to give. But, considering the major turmoil in his freshman year, namely my divorce situation, I feel his experience at Glenbard West was successful. Only now, I wish Patrick understands that the philosophy of 'doing enough to get by' will not work at the college level. Academic competition only gets greater, it never gets easier. I pray Patrick adjusts quickly to the freedom and independence of college life and, from day numero uno, hits the books hard.
Other sidenotes include some interesting highlights. My discussions about helping the Glenbard West High School varsity basketball team continue. I'm not sure where they will direct me, but I sure do need something to fill this awful void that is quickly bearing down on me. Word from Stuart about my Mom is she's having more frequent severe coughing episodes which indicate the cancer continues to advance. God, do I fear what's in store for her last few days and hours. Cancer is ugly, no matter what unfolds. My Dad's health continues to also be more fragile. This waiting for death is tough business, for all of us.
Speaking of health, mine is out of whack right now as well. On Monday at 7am, I meet with a surgeon to discuss my pending hernia surgery. I am hurting when I run and it is not fun. Better to get fixed than waste more time thinking about it!
So ends the latest 'Rambling'. Peace. Out, Ricky
