June 5 10
Yesterday may have been the toughest day since Andrew went to Heaven on July 14, 2007. But, we survived Andrew’s graduation. And, more than that, we did OK…thanks to a lot of people.
Thank you to Fr. Dalton, Fr. Bill and all of the faculty and staff of Salesianum for honoring our son and brother with a diploma. While Andrew may not have completed all of the academic requirements of graduation, I don’t think anyone has done more to live the principles and spirit of St. Francis de Sales, the Patron Saint of Salesianum. Andrew is a member of the Salesianum Class of 2010 and I hope he will be remembered that way forever. Thank you very much for showing Andrew love and respect.
To Andrew’s Salesian brothers, thank you. In particular, we would like to thank Christian Bale for speaking so eloquently, lovingly, and respectly about Andrew in his remarks as one of the student speakers. We were overwhelmed by all of the hugs, handshakes, and kind words expressed to us last night by Andrew’s ‘brothers’. Two of Andrew’s friends even stopped by our house prior to graduation to present us with flowers. You all ARE Salesian Gentlemen, and your kindness is greatly appreciated. Tenui Nec Dimittam - take hold and never let go! Andrew will be with you always.
We greatly appreciate all of the kind words, notes, and hugs from our friends; old and new. During this very difficult time, you have helped us to not feel alone.
As usual, we are indebted to our family. You’re always there for us…whether we want company or privacy, we know we can always count on you.
Andrew, as you know, I prayed to you and God to give us strength last night. Thank you SO much for showing us your presence and answering my prayers. While I know you miss us as much as we miss you, I’ll bet you were proud last night.
Thank you, God, for giving us your strength and for blessing us with so much support. We know that we are so fortunate, because so many people don’t have the support that we have.
It was a really tough night - tough couple of weeks actually - but Andrew continues to ‘live’ and touch so many people from Heaven, and that is so important to us. There are no words to describe the excruciating pain of missing our son and brother, but I continue to be so proud of Andrew and how he’s changing the world from Heaven. I’m thankful for our many blessings.
Andrew John McDonough, congratulations on your graduation from Salesianum School as a member of the Class of 2010. I love you and am so proud of you!
B+