Just seven hours ago my newest nephew was born. Joshua is 18 inches long and is his mom's first baby. I hope I can be half the uncle to him that my uncle was to me.
My Uncle Lee spent a lot of time with the eight of us kids in our youth. He didn't have a wife or kids so he had freedom to take us skiing, mostly to the U.P., but occasionally out to Aspen or Jackson Hole. We spent hours sailing in his small boat and loved that he took us to movies and used book stores. My brother and I made a couple of dollars and lots of memories helping out in his art studio one summer. He was in his blacksmithing phase of art that year. We helped cast pieces at a foundry and saw him work with smashed railroad axles that were hammered flat and placed in front of a library as sculpture. His work was big and heavy, hot and loud, and he had the muscles to prove it.
I've always admired my uncle. He was and is a free spirit who loves the outdoors and the open road. He loves to read and travel and speaks many languages. He founded
SCOLA, a worldwide, educational, satellite network at Creighton University in 1981. He's met Arthur C. Clarke. It's hard to imagine he's a priest.
My Uncle Lee doesn't see as well, doesn't ski anymore and isn't built like he used to be. We still see him occasionally when he's not off travelling the world. I'll next see him May 20th at Marquette's Commencement Exercises where he will receive the Honorary Doctor of Science.
My uncle taught me a lot by example. His love of art, sports and learning. The unpretentious way he conducts himself. The attention he gives the person he's with. I feel he's the reason I'm comfortable around other clergy, because he never used his position in any other than a good way.
My wish for Joshua? A long and happy life, of course, but also many good influences. My uncle would approve.
