(Me in HC hockey shirt, me and my dad at Bruins Slapshot Night)
This shirt was a birthday present from the Holy Cross students that come to visit Hope Lodge. Shocking to some to see me in anything other than a Boston College shirt, but this is one of my favorites.
What some of you might not know is that I grew up rooting for Holy Cross and against BC. My father went to HC (class of ’68), and took us to the annual BC vs. HC football game (which was during the downswing of the Holy Cross program, so the “Flutie Years” at BC, so the score was usually 60-3 BC).
What I don’t know is how upset my father was (if at all) with my choice to go to BC. Being the great dad that he is, he never showed it. Like he had my whole life, he only supported me. He did wear purple (HC color) every time he helped me move into my dorm at BC, but I thought that was funny.
Something that I just found a few years out a few years ago really illustrates how great my father is. My grandmother told my older brother that my father wanted to go to BC. They couldn’t afford the housing, so he went to HC instead. Not only did he go to HC, he hitchhiked his way there every day.
Through all of my drinking shenanigans, did my father ever tell me this? No. Did he ever say “You should feel lucky you’re going to BC, I never could.” No. Did he ever say anything like “You better get your act together or no more BC?” No. He never once even raised he voice to me about my drinking. The only thing he wanted to do was support. He just asked me what he could do to help. Friggin’ amazing.
It is amazing to me what both of my parents have taught me. By his example, my father has taught me to be kind, non-judgemental, and helpful. He has taught me to laugh a lot, especially when times are tough. He has made it easy for me to say “I Love You” to him more than just on Father’s Day. He taught me (even thought I didn’t appreciate it as a kid) how important taking pictures is and the value of capturing certain moments. He taught me the importance of family.
He also taught me how sweet it can be when your team wins. So Dad, thanks for being the best dad a guy could ask for. I love you! This is for you:
Dave, you are right - we are all lucky to have him in our lives! Love, Mom
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ReplyDeleteOpps... didn't mean to remove my post! What I said was:
ReplyDeleteTruer words have never been written!
Couldn't have said it better myself!
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