On Monday, David participated in the League Tennis Tournament. That was an all-day event, in which he played two matches. I won't go into the details, but let's just say that there are players who are willing to cheat, repeatedly, when they are under pressure. I wonder what life has in store for young people who are willing to trade their integrity in order to win. By the way, if you are interested in reading a well-written interview with such a person, hop over to http://www.vanityfair.com/ and read the article about Marc Dreier. It's a very illuminating cautionary tale, which I suggest should be required reading in high schools around the country (especially after seeing two young men - on different teams, at different events - cheating in sports this season).
Yesterday afternoon, I accompanied David to Seattle, where we met Gregg and drove to Bellevue to see a presentation about a college in which David is interested. It's a wonderful school, and I became tearful as I was listening to the students and faculty speaking about it. I'm so excited for David and this next "frontier" that awaits him. He is standing on the brink of discovery, challenges, adventure and opportunity: it's thrilling to be a witness to this. College was all of that, and more, for me; I wish I had been more mature back then, but that's not the way it works when you are 18 and leaving home for the first extended period of time. So I watch him, and hound him to get all of his preparatory work completed in a timely manner, and watch some more.
I love being a mother.
Got to go and finish getting ready!
There is a new posting over at the Katie Gerstenberger Endowment blog.
8 comments:
I love that you are hosting that party. That would be very difficult for me right now, but I am feeling like I need to step up and step back into life. The thought in my head is "People need me to be there for them". So I admire what you are doing, and am, as usual, inspired by you. I hope the guests feel the love and that it is a great success for YOU.
As for the cheaters, we always said as kids, "cheaters never prosper" and that seemed to settle the whole issue. No one escapes the consequences of their own poor choices. So congratulations to David for choosing the high road.
Let us know how the banquet goes...
You're raising a wonderful young man there, girl! : ) Yes, we've encountered cheaters and parents that go around behind their kids cleaning up their messes and discipline issues so the child never has to face their own problems and shortcomings and it truly is sad 'where things are going' sometimes. And yes, rarely do those kids really succeed in life... especially in the things that matter most!
Sounds like you'll have a wonderful party at your place. I'm so glad you're feeling up to hosting and taking care of all the details. I'm sure it will be just perfect! : )
I saw this story about Marc Dreier on 20/20 or 60 minutes. Such a shame. He just could not stop with the lies...like he was possessed or something. Just crazy. And you are right, young people who start their lives out lying/cheating are going to have a rude awakening when they can't get away with it anymore. I am amazed that their parents have not taught them better values than that...but perhaps their parents are like Marc Dreier???
50 people???? You are brave and sweet to do that...have fun Karen.
Off to check out Katie's updated page.
Oh, and I get you on the college thing too...we visited 2 recently for Lo, I am excited for her, but scared for ME!!!
I found your blog through another. I have been quietly reading as the sun shines and a plane goes overhead and my cat jumped up here and I have been incredibly moved by your spirit. You are such a whole spirit, even in your suffering. I cannot put into words how sorry I am that you lost your girl. I am a mother of two boys and one girl...it is a pain and loss so infinite I cannot imagine. I can only feel the edges brush against me and honor your walk through such a harrowing journey. The clear and direct way you express yourself and your story is life affirming, even in such darkness.
I will keep reading.
Hi, Karen! Thanks for catching us up on your beautiful boy's doings. I'm envious that he's off to college -- that was certainly, easily, some of the best years of my life. All that learning, the campus life, the friends, the intrigue, the freedom -- it's just the best. I hope your party goes well -- tell us all about it, including what you serve!
Sounds like fun and exciting times for you and your household. Have fun entertaining. I myself always liked being that house that the kids gathered in. The more noise, laughter, and silliness...the better!
Enjoy!
Dawn
Are you still alive today after the banquet??!! You are brave!
What a wonderful post....your love shines through your writing.
Hope you're relaxing after pulling off such a big event!
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