Do it anyway

Had a good day today -- things are getting back to "normal" around here. I slept well last night and all you parents out there know how good that can feel. My father-in-law had surgery this morning here in Houston, and Jamie got to go visit him and said he is recovering well. Hopefully he will get to come home tomorrow, but it may take a little longer than that.

Thank you to everyone for the sincere calls, emails and prayers of support. Those who know me well know that I'm an extremely introspective person, and it has always been a high priority for me to internalize and learn from life's experiences. This time is no different, and I fully intend on having more kindness, more gratitude, more grace and more compassion for teenagers as a response to Julian's murder. His time was cut short and he cannot personally fulfill the potential he may have had of making the world a better place. Each person who knew him will hopefully take on a part of that task for themselves.

Tomorrow I've got a good 'ole regular workday at the office, plus finally getting to the gym for that workout that was planned for Tuesday. In closing, here are a few of the lessons I've learned (or been reminded of) over the past 48 hours. They are in the format of the "do it anyway" statements made famous by Mother Teresa. I recommend you look them up.

The human body is very fragile, even the very healthiest ones. I will exercise anyway.

When I tell the truth, others might try to take advantage of me. I will tell the truth anyway.

Teaching my kids about the reality of drugs, gangs, guns and hate will be difficult. I will teach them anyway.

Helping others is almost never convenient, easy or even appreciated. I will try to help others anway.

(Special thanks to my Grandmother Baggett for her email that inspired the "helping others" statement)