Dear Alexander,
It’s hard to believe that it’s been 25 years since I saw your smiling face in the church nursery on that Father’s Day when we met for the first time. So much has changed. You’ve lived in three different states, gone to classes in five different school districts, overcome Epilepsy, learned to read against all odds, found a career that you excel in, bought your own home, and found a life partner in our dear, precious, Alaynna. Without a doubt, it is a joy and honor to be your dad.
While we may not share DNA, our father/son bond is tested and strong. That became so clear again last December when you called late that fateful Saturday night and told us you were involved in a horrible auto accident. People are not supposed to be walking in the middle of a major metropolitan highway at 11pm at night. We all know that you are the first person who would stop to render aid if someone was stranded on the side of the road. Thanks be to God that the police officers arrived immediately in response to 911 calls about someone walking on the highway. Taking a life is a giant burden and I am astonished at how well you have grieved and adjusted.
I have always said that you are the bravest person that I know. (Let’s not make such a habit of re-proving that fact!) Since you were a little boy, I always challenged you to make good choices and to be safe. Through this tragedy, I am reminded that your moral compass is strong. You are a good, decent, kind, loyal, loving and faith-filled child of God. It shines in everything you do - but especially in the hard times. This dad could not be more proud of you.
Finally, I will confess to you that I am not looking forward to officiating your upcoming wedding in January. I know that I will be a puddle of tears and an emotional mess. But, you have taught me that we can do hard things. Really hard things. So, maybe this won’t be as hard as I think it will be. Regardless, you should put some extra Kleenex in your pockets for that day - just sayin’.
Thanks for making me a father 25 years ago and thanks for making me a better person every single day since. I love you so much - keep making great choices - you’re really good at it! Dad
Don McAvoy
