He Never Misses

Category: Loving Others

  • Mad for…Julie

    So do not worry and say, ‘What are we to eat?’ or ‘What are we to drink?’ or ‘What are we to wear?’  Matthew 6:31

    Above right, Julie Kiffmeyer pictured with her terrific husband, Joe.

    On day 7 of his life on this planet, Matthew, the infant son of Joe and Julie Kiffmeyer stopped nursing.  He began to fuss and cry uncontrollably.  This was their third son.  Julie surmised she was having her first experience with a colicky baby.  Over the next day or so, there were moments of calm, but mostly Matthew was just a wailing mess of a sweet thing.  And he wouldn’t nurse.  She wondered if she’d eaten something spicy, she wracked her mind for ideas. He wouldn’t eat despite her trips to the drugstore for every kind of nipple and bottle available on the market.

    Then, he turned a very scary shade of dark red.  She took him to see the pediatrician.  A lengthy examination ensued, which led to more of the same.  Initially, nothing seemed amiss.  Then, suddenly they saw a clue.  His eyes were twitching, and he was clenching his fists.  Her baby boy was seizing.  Every 5 minutes. 

    “I was calm,” Julie declares when we asked her to recount the years old details.  “Had I been less so, I think probably they would have sent me home with the usual remedies and suggestions for a colicky baby.  It was my calm demeanor that I think led to a closer look.  I clearly was not an over-reactor.”

    It wasn’t long before more tests and an MRI revealed that Matthew had a level 4 brain bleed affecting the left side of his brain.  Although his symptoms and prognosis really are unique to him alone, his official diagnosis was cerebral palsy. 

    “My mom taught me to trust in God and not worry.  I was raised in an Episcopalian home.  God gives you what you can handle.  How Matthew is?  That’s how we’re all supposed to be.”

    I knew exactly what she meant.  You see, Matthew is the same age as my middle son, Drew.  They are both teenagers now, and anyone who knows Mattie knows he’s an amazing, sunny kid.  When I met the Kiffmeyers, Matthew was about 4 years old.  We were both busy Catholic school moms with kids the same ages.  A lot of people would look at the situation as an obstacle, but Julie?  She revels in every single success, and she flat out just celebrates the gift of her son—actually all of her 4 children.  Andrew, their oldest, is in grad school in St. Louis, a physical therapist.  Jimmy is a UC Bearcat, next comes the aforementioned Matthew and then sweet Sarah is an 8th grader with my Zach at SLDM.  I’ve never detected anything but gratefulness and I’ve heard a whole lot of laughter as I observe her family. Personally, I think it’s hereditary.  AND, like all our best qualities, the positivity I see in her children, well, I think it’s a gift born of God and passed down by their mother!  Ha?!!  Ok, maybe they won the double DNA lottery.  Dad, Joe, is a pretty fantastic human too. 

    Julie is graced with the outward looking smile.  This smile is one which is aimed at another for his or her benefit.  It’s the silent and powerful acknowledgment that she sees the presence of Christ in that person.  Love is a decision.  When we love, we are making a decision to look outward.  It’s not about impressing someone or looking the part.  Have you ever considered how you might answer the question if God asks you “How did you love me?”  Julie has.

    Do you know anyone who smiles with their entire body?  I know a lot of people with beautiful smiles who are just showing their teeth and flashing their cuteness at me when I see them.  People who smile are pretty much my most favorite people, I’ll be honest.  However, there is a vast difference between smiling and radiating a glow that envelops those in your path.  A real smile is authentic, and it simply can’t be faked.  It’s a response to all the joys and chaos of life, and it attracts admirers.  Do you know anyone that smiles like that?

    My well-adjusted, authentic, bright, warm and compassionate friend Julie is such a person.  With all the energy in a 3-foot radius, she smiles, hugs and giggles to greet others.  She knows what to savor and what to disregard.  Her positive perspective can turn any problem into an opportunity for growth.  She listens.  She notices.  Quite simply, she sees the value of each passing moment.  She’s content and aware in whatever moment she inhabits in a way few others can manage.

    This is a woman with 4 amazing children, but she’s had moments of struggle.  I shared the story of her son Matthew to illustrate this point. Life hasn’t been perfect.  She knows her life belongs to the Lord and she trusts God and just lives today better than almost anyone I’ve ever met.

    “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Jesus Christ.”  When we exhibit the virtue of joy, we recognize that happiness is rooted not in things of this world, like money or power or possessions, but in being believers of Christ.  Our joy is in being a beloved child of God.

    Julie is a Jesus girl.  She is a happy and amazing woman of God. 

    Thanks for showing me what JOY is supposed to look like, Julie.  HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!  I LOVE YOU, FRIEND!

  • Mad for…Erin

    She is clothed with strength and dignity and she laughs without fear of the future. (Proverbs 31:25)

    This globe-trotting cutie is Erin (Vanderkleed) Ulrich. In this photo, she and I were grabbing a glass of wine in Sorrento, Italy with our moms. She was a very key cog in my one and only overseas adventure. You see, it turns out Erin is a map reading, walking tour SAVANT.

    In my growing up years in Lafayette, Erin and her family were a fixture. Our Dads were buddies in high school, both proud members of the Jefferson Bronchos tennis team. My dad was best man in her parent’s wedding. The Vanderkleeds had two girls, and there were two of us Dykhuizen girls. I was the oldest and Erin was the youngest, so she’s several years younger than me, and that’s all you need to know! Ha?

    Erin and her really fantastic husband, Brad, are both Purdue grads and therefore, fellow Boilermakers. They have three children (Jack, Sara and Lily) and she lives in Libertyville, IL. Erin is a woman of tremendous strength and formidable aptitude in most anything she puts to her mind. She’s moved across the country with her husband as he climbed through the ranks at Walgreens over the years, which I am certain has not been an easy task to manage with a young family in toe. From afar (and through my mom’s updates) I’ve kept up with Erin and her sister, Jill, through the years.

    Erin’s a wife, mother, sister, and an aunt. She enjoys running and she’s incredibly beautiful, even after walking 10 miles while reading non-stop from a Rick Steves walking tour guide to Rome (after an overnight flight from Chicago). How did she do that? Truly, she has a certain elegance with which she carries herself. I watched her for 10 days and I still can’t figure out how she ties her scarves in such a charming way. When she does it, it looks so easy and darling…while I am pretty much a tangled mess! Ha!

    She’s lived in Chicago, in Oklahoma, in Boston and now she’s back to Chicago. Did I miss a stop? I’m not entirely sure. As a mother, one’s concern is for the health and emotional well being of her children during times of chaos. Her plate has been full with their adventurous roaming. I have tremendous admiration for Erin’s energy, fortitude and toughness.

    Erin, I know I’m a couple days late on the birthday love, but perhaps you should know that I am all about the FESTIVAL style celebration when it comes to these things!? I’m incredibly grateful for our chance to reconnect during what was a truly meaningful and beautiful trip this past fall! Having you there made the experience so much better. Thank you also for your kind words and encouragement during my recent health craziness. They were truly appreciated!

    From your witness, I’ve learned how important it is to remember that strength comes from persistent and continuous effort…we’ve just got to keep going! If we do that, we’ll be just fine. You are a terrific human. HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MY FRIEND!! I hope it was a great one!

  • Mad for…Christian

    The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy. –Martin Luther King, Jr.

    • Christian, on the left with my oldest son Nick, when they were 10.
    • A recent photo of CD with his little brother, Malcolm

    My oldest son, Nick, when he was in kindergarten, came home day after day telling me about his friend, Christian. When I happened upon this mysterious little guy’s mom at a school “movie night” I immediately introduced myself and told her that I sure as heck hoped she’d heard the name “Nick” at her house, because my kid was crazy about her son. When she assured me this was not new information to her, I just recall saying “Well, THANK GOD!” The two boys (and their mothers) became fast and lasting friends.

    Meet Christian Daniels. When I first met this smart, earnest, and polite little sports lover, I knew immediately he was a high quality human being. It was obvious even at age 5. Seriously, CD just entered the world a kind, articulate little guy and these facts remain unchanged, as does his lifelong love for U of L sports teams.

    Quick-witted, big-hearted and unflappable, Christian has always been both a hard worker and a high achieving student. He’s a natural leader, a quality which has been evident throughout his life. In grade school he was the point guard on the basketball team and the QB on the football field. In high school, he was captain of the basketball team (AND he was an IHSAA State Champion), and now he’s the top dog at his fraternity at Miami of Ohio. His peers have always respected him, because, quite frankly, he’s a respectable guy. It’s that simple.

    Christian is faithful, a man of integrity, mature and self-confident. He has a positive attitude, and he’s a gentleman. He’s true to his word. If he tells you that he is going to do something, you can count on it. He has a high moral compass and he’s an honest and compassionate friend with a terrific sense of humor. I could not ask for a better young man to have in my house eating those pancakes he learned to cut LIKE A BEAST in my very own kitchen! (Ha? See what I did there CD?)

    As a big brother, there just isn’t a finer example. Who else do you know at age 19 who makes extra trips to and from school so he can coach his little brother’s CYO team? I wish I could adequately describe to you the pure joy and pride on Malcolm’s face because his big brother was on that bench with him, coaching his team. That selflessness on CD’s part and for the benefit of all those little SLDM Cardinals will never be forgotten by his little brother, who truly worships him.

    Last week, I got a beautiful note from CD. In it, he spent considerable time thanking me for the kindnesses shown to him over the years. It was classic Christian in tone, just positive and upbeat, brightening my day and spreading happiness, because he can. He looks for the good in others, and in a world filled with so many people who don’t take the time to do the same, Christian SHINES.

    Happy 21st Birthday to you, CD! My life and the lives of all the Thieme family are so much richer because of your presence. What inspires me about you is the way your character shines, no matter the circumstances. The quote (above) that you shared with me in your note made me smile. You said it was one of your favorites, and I can see why. It fits you perfectly. LOVE YOU, KID.

  • Mad for…Jake

    A faithful friend is a sturdy shelter; he that has found one has found a treasure. There is nothing so precious as a faithful friend, no scales can measure his worth. (Sir 6:14-15)

    • Jake Andriole, with Zach and Drew

    When Drew and Jake were about 8 years old or so, he and his SLDM basketball teammates were warming up very early one Saturday morning at the Indiana Basketball Academy. The doors had just opened and clearly the heat had been off during the night. It was quite chilly at 7:30am, so Drew grabbed his gloves and put them on as he warmed up. Drew suffers from Raynaud’s Syndrome. When the temperatures get too chilly, he begins to lose circulation in his fingers. He’s an ace at managing it. This particular morning, a player warming up on the opposing end starting harassing Drew a little, making fun of his gloves. Drew ignored him. However, his good buddy Jake was having exactly NONE OF IT.

    “Hey, dude! He’s got like a disease or something. How ’bout you BACK OFF!”

    There you have Jake in a nutshell. He’s about loyalty, courage, and integrity. I’ve told that story 100 times, but that’s because it captures his essence with such clarity.

    When a person does what is right by their own personal values and morals, that’s integrity, and that’s Jake. He properly cares for others, even when it costs him something or he has to stick his nose out a little. He’s faithful in the way he shows up, in good times and bad times. If Jake’s your friend, he’ll call you an idiot to your face if it needs doing, but behind your back, no one will defend you like he will. He loves with his whole heart.

    Jake Andriole is a guy’s guy and strong as an ox, but also he’s a big teddy bear. He’s gifted when dealing with children, and has zero sense of entitlement. It’s so refreshing.

    I’m not at all sure Jake realizes how much God has been at work in his life, but He truly has graced this talented, loyal, confident, grateful, outgoing, and sunny young man with outrageous riches. His presence at my breakfast table definitely set the record for most pancakes ever eaten in one setting, but make no mistake, he’s welcome ALWAYS. This kid has been a terrific blessing to our family.

    Watching you run your race is something I’ve been doing since you were a very little boy, Jake Dan. You’ve been strong, fierce and sure, following the path laid out before you– even when you are not entirely sure what is coming next. Wherever you’re headed, you always encourage others. I’ve seen you encourage fellow athletes as well as friends and family members. 100% of the time, I want YOU on my team.

    HAPPY 19TH BIRTHDAY, JAKE DAN! Thank you for always making me smile, for the great big bear hugs, and for the gift of your sunshine in my life and the life of Drew, to whom you have been the most loyal friend imaginable. I LOVE YOU, KID!!

    Let us run with perserverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. (Hebrews 12:1-2)

  • Mad for…Caroline

    Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of others. (Phil. 2:3-4)

    It’s a rare and truly faithful gem when we uncover someone whose genuine concern seems to always first be for the good of others. In the case of Caroline, I’ve mostly admired that authentic spirit and sparkle from lurking nearby in sports venues over the years. She’s generous and selfless in the most rare and beautiful way. What I’ve come to understand from paying closer attention is that she really is more than that, she’s a glittering jewel of a soul.

    • Caroline with her oldest son, Andrew, at daughter Kathryn’s recent wedding.

    Caroline Godfrey is the mother of 4 (mostly) grown children, and she recently became the mother-in-law to two more. She’s the wife of a very fine man she always calls “Billy”. Most of what I know about her family firsthand, I uncovered on a couple of lazy afternoons in Vincennes, Indiana. Now, no offense intended if you are a Vincennes Alice, but once you’ve seen St. Frances Xavier Basilica and maybe even ventured over to peek at the George Rogers Clark Historic Monument, you’re left with the movies and a slice of pizza at Bobe’s. That about covers Vincennes. When you’ve made the annual trek with the Guerin Catholic Basketball team to the annual holiday tournament on numerous occasions, well, it’s been done. At this point, a booth at Gilbert’s Pub with a couple of cold beverages is really the most appealing option for the long afternoon breaks. Because they were more experienced GC basketball parents, when we found our way to Gilberts, the much more saavy Godfreys had already taken up residence.

    What I already knew and loved about Caroline (and Bill, too) from afar was cemented for me on that second trip to Vincennes. She’s authentic, funny, kind and utterly humble. If I’m honest, I thought to myself that I’m not quite sure how someone pulls off an afternoon of beer, chips, and salsa giggling all the way and STILL she left me feeling I had been in the joyful presence of a woman who so reminded me of our Holy Mother. How is that even possible? All I can say is, Caroline is just an extra large scoop of awesome sauce. I know, I know…my eloquence is nothing if not overwhelming. Ha?

    It was the ultimate come as you are party. Mostly, we laughed and talked about our kids and confessed to our most hilarious parenting fails. She reminded me that day that we don’t have to have it all together, we just have to know and love the One who does.

    I could share personal stories of encouragement she’s offered to myself and others, kindnesses to those who have less, her giftedness listening and caring– but if you know her you’re already aware. She’s never drawing attention to herself in any of it. It’s just who she is. Caroline is the face of Christ to all around her.

    A couple years or so before that silly afternoon at Gilberts, I had prayed over Caroline with a large group of GC basketball moms right in the middle of the Noblesville High School gym after our kiddos finished a game. She was about to undergo surgery for breast cancer, and the moment was powerful. Her humility that evening, and the way God shined was wholly spectacular. When I heard more recently that her cancer had returned, I was convicted completely of the need to pray without ceasing for this lovely woman of God. It was less a choice and more a calling. I’ve been working the beads for you, sister.

    Have you ever met someone and thought, “How on earth is she for real?” That has always been me where Caroline is concerned. She’s just the definition of lovely, authentic goodness. She carries herself with grace. I have known instinctively for some time now that the Lord meant me to notice and learn from her powerful witness of what He means us to be as a wife, mother, and faith-filled woman of God. These are sometimes the stunning gifts the Lord bestows on us when we are members of a thriving Christian community. I’m going to need some significant work…but He sure gave me a beautiful example in Caroline.

    My friend, there’s a heavenly arsenal of warriors fighting alongside you with our prayers for your healing in mind, body and spirit. Please know that we are with you, and so is the Lord. THANK YOU FOR YOUR AMAZING WITNESS OF FAITH AND FOR SO OFTEN BEING THE FACE OF JESUS TO OTHERS, INCLUDING ME!

    The Lord is my light and my salvation, whom should I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life, of whom should I be afraid? (Psalm 27:1)

  • Mad for…Mary

    “The very hairs of your head are all numbered.” (Luke 12:7)

    • My sister in law, Mary Jo, with Tom in Saugatuck

    Day 43 of 365.

    Meet Mary Jo (Thieme) Sashegyi. Mary Jo is Tom’s sister. He’s the baby of the family and Mary is 3 years his senior. When Tom and I were freshmen at Lafayette Central Catholic High School, she was an upperclassman. That fairly close in age connection made it a little easier for me get to know her. She was still around the house, you see, when we started dating while his oldest sister Jennie was off in college.

    Mary Jo celebrated a big milestone birthday last year around this time, and we SO enjoyed that day and getting to know some of her terrific friends a little better. Her birthday was yesterday! So, while I am a day late, I hope she’ll forgive me as I honor her, though a little off schedule. Her life is certainly one worth celebrating to the fullest!

    The scripture quote above sort of chose me today, rather than the other way around. You see, I had already decided today would be Mary’s day, and then this little line hopped into my way in a book today and it made me laugh and think of Mary Jo. She’s a really beautiful woman with this big and (occasionally) unwieldly head full of curly hair. So, I was taking the verse LITERALLY in that moment. I have always been a bit jealous of her locks, if truth be told. It would take me several days and only the good Lord knows how much hair product to get the graceful curls she wakes up already having.

    The fact is, God already knows and loves a whole lot about Mary– curly hair and all. That quirky little giggle, the soft-spoken voice, and the kind heart she has– the Lord did all that. Mary cleans up like a queen. She’s truly a graceful and stunning woman. However, she’s also annoyingly lovely with her hair all a mess, no makeup, and no primp. She’s the kind of gal who doesn’t have to wear designer anything. The Lord simply drew her from the riches of His imagination and made her a loving, kind and beautiful human.

    Mary and I once took a trip to New York City together to visit her brother while he did a college internship with IBM. The three of us laughing uproariously through the streets of the “Big Apple” is still one of my most fond memories. She was up for whatever fun was happening, and it simply cemented in my mind that her (much lower) volume than mine should not be construed as lack of enthusiasm or substance. She’s a good egg.

    Mary is the mother of my sparkplug of a nephew Thomas and her very bright, multi-lingual, German/Canadian husband, Andreas. She’s got her hands full with a busy family life. However, she keeps going, trusting in the Lord on her journey. Her faithfulness and kind heart are her enduring qualities. Mary Jo, I want you to know that there is just so much I admire and appreciate about you. I definitely should have said so sooner. Also? I truly hope you had a very HAPPY BIRTHDAY! Much love!

  • Mad for…Michele

    He who watches over you will not slumber. (Psalm 121:3)

    So today, I’ve decided to talk less and post more photos than normal. To say that it’s been a long few years for my friend, Michele Maginot, would be a colossal understatement. Today marks the 4th birthday in a row that she has endured without her youngest daughter, Jen. The beautiful and utterly kind Jen would be 19 years old today.

    My fellow Boilermaker fan with the most hilarious dry sense of humor, Michele is also the most patient person around. How do I know this? It’s her beagles. Dear God in heaven, someone please explain to me how seemingly reasonable people like Michele seem to love their beagles despite all the destruction they leave in their wake!? Ha?

    Jen’s been much talked about for her kindness, and I know she’s in heaven today watching over her thoughtful, funny mama, as well as her Dad, Paul and her brother Greg and sis, Alli. Jen’s defining quality, I always thought, was a rather impressive reflection on the quiet grace and kindness she learned by the witness of her terrific mom.

    Michele, by the grace of God and many, many prayers offered, you’re still standing. I know you’re tired, I know the tank sometimes feels empty, and you might be running on fumes….but you’re still running. You’re allowed to slip away and find a quiet place, for a moment, an hour, a day. Just remember when you do it to rest your weary head on the shoulder of the One who never sleeps and who never ceases to watch over you because HE LOVES YOU. You are the beloved daughter of the most high God. So you just put your head in His lap today.

    Michele and Jen
    Alli, Jen, and Greg
    Paul and Michele

    You, my dear friend, are a family of 5. For now and forever. Therefore, I’ve posted pictures which reflect that. So today, my prayer for you is that God rains down grace for you so that you find the strength to take a deep breath, say a prayer and take the next step. God loves the way you keep calm and trust on, how you reach out to help others. He loves the way you keep going. YOU ARE AN INSPIRATION TO ME for your positivity, strength and selflessness. I hope you feel the hug I’m trying to send you. I love you. Happy Heavenly Birthday to your girl. She sees you, and she’s SO PROUD.

  • Mad for…Ann

    “To help children, boys and girls, young men, women and adults to know and love the Lord ever more is one of the most beautiful educational adventures…” (Pope Francis)

    • Don and Ann Kalmey

    Day 41 of 365.

    One of her several recent notes read, “I wanted you to know that yesterday you were my special intention at mass and communion. My thoughts and prayers continue to be with you.” Meet Ann Kalmey. She’s the mother of one of my most dear friends on the planet, Lisa, as well as two more grown children, Lee Ann and Doug. She’s a grandmother to a whole slew of accomplished and amazing young people. I really know her just a little, from a sprinkling of moments together over the years, and yet this fact is utterly unsurprising.

    You and I, all of us actually, we sometimes wish for a better world, a better way, an improved life in one way or another. Standing between the ideal and reality are mountainous obstacles, colossal challenges….and we think I’m only one person!! What can I possibly do? Let me tell you what you can do! You can BE LIKE ANN!

    Ann and her incredibly fun-loving and intelligent husband raised their beautiful family with a strong base of faithfulness as it’s core. Ann spent much of her professional career as a principal at St. Margaret Mary Catholic School near Louisville, KY. Because Ann is an unbelievably articulate and very strong woman, I know without a doubt that the staff of teachers she led and the students under her care were both well educated in the faith and unconditionally and compassionately supported. “Without confidence and love, there can be no true education” said St. John Bosco. I quite agree. What an amazing way Ann has served the Lord with her life and vocation!

    In more recent years, Ann also FOUGHT THE BEAST….and she WON! I am confident she has met many other obstacles in her life besides breast cancer with similar fire and persistence. Her formidable strength and faithfulness as well as an overflowing helping of compassion are to me, her defining qualities.

    Here’s the thing Ann reminded me of in recent days with her persistent and thoughtful reaching out. God can do immeasurably more than we could ever imagine. On our own our little efforts might be little in our minds eye, but when we live our lives with Christ at the center, we aren’t on our own– we are souls magnifying the Lord! We needn’t ever think “I can only do so much!”

    Thank you, Ann, for being an encouraging face of the Lord to all in your path. Your daughter, Lisa, is a fierce and unbelievably loving and faithful woman because of the love of her mother. I couldn’t do life without her, and this week I realize how fortunate I am that through her, I’ve been able to get to know her spectacular sparkplug of a mother….and snag a scoop of your fabulousness in my life too!

  • Mad for…Jane

    Day 40 of 365:

    We are so hilarious, I feel bad for the people who don’t get to listen to our conversations and enjoy our hilariousness. I like you, D, because you join in on my weirdness. D is short for “Dirt” by the way, which is the very affectionate nickname I gave Jane Mullin years ago. When I don’t call her “D” it just feels strange to me. Despite the fact that she’s a little bitty slip of a gorgeous woman, she IS older than me, older than DIRT you see. It stuck. Sometimes, she even gives me a birthday present with no card inside, just a little medicine jar full of dirt from her backyard. She’s not the kind of gal who gets offended when you insult her, INSTEAD, she smiles and calls you something even more offensive. Then, you both giggle.

    • The lady in red is my friend, Jane Mullin. She’s with her family here.

    Meet Jane. She’s the mom to two completely brilliant DePauw Tigers, Conner and Katie, and the wife of the best sports dad with whom I shared the stands for many years. She’ll be annoyed that I am telling the whole darn world that I think she’s one of the finest and most genuine, loving moms I have ever encountered. Her kids have a fantastic work ethic and they are high achievers, because she knows what she’s doing. She is the very face of love.

    Do you know that night when you were laughing so hard and you tried to stop, but you looked at the person and laughed so hard you no longer had oxygen and there were only tears but no more noise? Yeah, this is that friend. She drinks a little more beer than you think someone that size could manage. Also, she cusses. Furthermore, she sends long lovely letters offering prayers when she finds out you’re sick. When you respond to her fabulousness by being sentimental, she replies, “SHUT UP, Shell….you are being such a girl!” Then, you forget your bad day and you let out the best real laughter in a week.

    Her claim to fame at SLDM is the fact that SHE is the one who “issued sanctions” against a certain rival elementary school whose coach cheated BADLY in a 4th grade hoops contest years ago. That Catholic parish shall remain nameless here, to protect the innocent. Nevertheless, for years, our quiet protest was the “loss of sainthood”. We never published “St.” in front of their name on our internal game schedules after that. Oh yes, it’s as petty as it sounds…but if you have a sense of humor and you know her comic genius…it really IS that funny.

    In addition to all of this, Janie is unbelievably selfless and compassionate towards others. She’s utterly without guile, and she genuinely wants success and joy for everyone around her. Despite her silliness, she is a person who seems to always chooses to serve rather than stand still. Her life is filled with examples of self-sacrifice and smiles galore. She loves her family and her friends, and wow do we all love her back!!

    Thank you, D, for always being so darn encouraging. You never fail to cheer on all the athletes, lifting up others along the way, the same way you do your family and your friends. It’s inspiring, and it makes us all a little better for knowing you. It’s a beautiful thing to make a friend whose life may take a different path, whose face you may not see as often as you’d like but to know that it’s possible to do that without really ever growing apart. You always tell me “I love you like a sis”. Right back at you, D!

    I like this little quote, my hilarious friend, “Serve the Lord with Laughter!” It was spoken by St. Padre Pio and it reminds me of you. THANK YOU FOR THE LAUGHTER. I LOVE YOU, D!

  • Mad for…Danny

    Laughter is the closest thing to the grace of God. -Karl Barth

    • Meet Danny, and his little sis…Shannon

    This twinkle-eyed kid on the left is Danny. God loves the way he shines. Danny reminds me of the scripture verse from the book of Matthew, the very famous 25th chapter. “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters, you did for me.”

    What makes Danny so special is how kind he is. He’s remarkably gifted with young children, and so many times I have witnessed him comforting “the littles” in his own family. Younger siblings Ryan, Maddie and Shannon simply beam in his presence. I have no doubt that’s because they are absolutely certain that he’s just crazy about them.

    “To maintain a joyful family”, Pope John Paul II once said, “requires much from both the parents and the children. Each member of the family has to become, in a special way, the servant of the others.” This is the quality I most readily identify with the dimple cheeked, friendly, and affectionate Danny Hall. He is a natural born servant leader.

    Danny’s family is a truly unique and stunningly beautiful one, born of the darkest kind of tragedy. When he was 8, he lost both of his parents in a act of domestic violence that breaks my heart still. His mother, Shannon, was a friend. Her sons remind me of her so very much, and I know she is looking down from above full of pride for both her incredible boys. I know she also sees how compassionate, gentle, good-hearted Danny is every darn day. His immensely loving extended family and the entire community have stayed ever at his side, which makes all the difference, for sure. He’s being raised by his aunt and uncle, Colleen and Doug Stine. I could, and chances are good that I will write about them later. He has an older brother, Connor (the biggest Auburn fan EVER), and those three little cutie-pies I mentioned earlier.

    Here’s what I’d like Danny to know. I see you. I’ve noticed and so has Jesus. What you did, He saw. What you said, He heard. You might not even remember it. It was just a little thing, a part of who you are because of whose you are. It wasn’t little to Him, just like it’s not little to Ryan, or Mads, or Shan, or Moms…..or any of the people around you that you love up day after day. You are one phenomenal kid. When your smile reaches your eyes and the words come from your heart Danny, it’s a light that fills the room. Your kindness? It’s a gift from you to God. He loves you for it, and so do I!! You are a blessing to your family, to all at St. Louis de Montfort, and far beyond, kiddo.

    Thank you, Danny, for helping me see God by the way you light up a room with your smile. You make me want to be kind to others, just like you!!

    Jesus called the children to him and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” (Luke 18:16)