Letter to the editor (graphic illustration/MetroCreative)
Raising children is not an easy task when living among people. The harmony of getting along can be related not only to what you are taught, but also to your determination.
Lately, there have been a lot of comments about Harrison Butker’s commencement address. The Kansas City Chiefs’ famous kicker gave a thought-provoking speech. Yes, Mr. Harrison Butker is certainly wise beyond his years. His thought-provoking speech. He recognized the value of our children and how we raised them to be good citizens. That’s their parents’ responsibility. He points out how important a mother is to a child. He attributes his success to his education.
As my late husband, Melvin Hoover and I began our journey together. We had to decide what was important in life. He was a chemical engineer and I was a school teacher. After we started having children, we decided that our most important occupation was motherhood. By the time our children were grown and accomplished their goals in life, we were nearing retirement. As is often the case, aging wears down our bodies. Melvin developed heart problems. After one of Mel’s episodes, he wrote an open letter reflecting on his life.
“An open letter to my wife, children, grandchildren, and many others who have helped me during my recent troubles. How my path to this ‘family’ adventure began. No one knows more than me. It started with a general idea of what a “family” should consist of. It doesn’t matter how many boys or girls there are, it’s how smart, attractive, or other unique assets you have that require a fixed personality. It started with each child having their own individuality within the family unit.
“They choose their career, their companions, and make many decisions themselves. They hope that the spouse they choose will function as a family.
“While in a semi-conscious, sedated, and partially conscious state, I saw a family without jealousy or a mean superego, ready to act in the best interests of unity. I am…act regardless of the size of the mission or what needs to be done.
“Many times in the past, we came very close, but we knew we were there because your mother and grandmother contributed so much to the direction.
“God knows that I love you all together and as individuals.
“father”
It’s been 10 years since Melvin Hoover passed away. His family and many friends feel his presence and his compassion for listening and helping in any way possible.
val huber
dublin, virginia
(Formerly Marietta)
