The Graduates

Two in my immediate family earn academic degrees within the next ten days. Chris graduates from Seattle Pacific University with a bachelor's degree in Educational Ministry this weekend and Denny graduates from U.W. School of Law a week later. When Denny entered Law School in the fall 2005, we realized that both he and Chris would celebrate this rite of (academic) passage together in June 2008. The date seemed a long way off at the time. And now we are here, in the moment when they receive much deserved accolades and diplomas to document their achievements. How many fathers and sons experience this rare convergence?

I am so proud of Chris and Denny. They have worked hard for these accomplishments. The road hasn't always been easy but both have persevered and arrived at the place where they will be honored by their respective schools and by loved ones who care deeply about their success and happiness. As my Dad has said countless times as a high school principal introducing graduating senior classes, "They are worthy and well qualified."

To these two most treasured men in my life: Congratulations on a job well done!

I love you!