I’m a Proud Uncle
Posted By Russ Emerson on June 8, 2012 at 2:27 pm
My niece, the youngest of my parents’ grandchildren, graduates from high school today. She’s made me very proud as she’s grown from a binky-sucking toddler into a fine young woman.
She’ll be heading off to college in the fall, as will all her fellow graduates.
And like her cousin Tessa (a year older, attending Pepperdine, and another sterling example of fine American young-womanhood) she’ll be playing basketball.
Leap of Faith
May 29, 2012 by Elaine RottmanProvidence Hall senior Faith Emerson will play basketball for the Whitworth University (Spokane, Washington) Pirates come fall.
A pioneer for the Providence Hall athletics program, the three-sport (volleyball, basketball, track) athlete led the Lions to the CIF Division 6 championship basketball playoff game and was named All-CIF and All-County in hoops.
So yeah, I’m proud of her.
Also today comes this fortuitously timed column by David McCullough Jr. in the Boston Herald: You’re Not Special.
Yes, you’ve been pampered, cosseted, doted upon, helmeted, bubble-wrapped. Yes, capable adults with other things to do have held you, kissed you, fed you, wiped your mouth, wiped your bottom, trained you, taught you, tutored you, coached you, listened to you, counseled you, encouraged you, consoled you and encouraged you again. You’ve been nudged, cajoled, wheedled and implored. You’ve been feted and fawned over and called sweetie pie. Yes, you have. And, certainly, we’ve been to your games, your plays, your recitals, your science fairs. Absolutely, smiles ignite when you walk into a room, and hundreds gasp with delight at your every tweet. Why, maybe you’ve even had your picture in the Townsman! And now you’ve conquered high school… and, indisputably, here we all have gathered for you, the pride and joy of this fine community, the first to emerge from that magnificent new building…
But do not get the idea you’re anything special. Because you’re not.
That is as may be. My nieces and nephew have always been and always will be special to me.
And you will always be special to Faith. She adores her Uncle Russ, and with good reason. Kids know when you like them and you have never made a secret of liking Faith. Thanks for remembering my girl on this big day! XOX!