Today I had the privilege of attending a graduation luncheon for my sister's son, Mark. I say "privilege" not out of formality, but rather because I mean it. Mark, to me, is one of those guys who just has "it". I can't quite explain what "it" is, but he has "it". I mean, Mark is the type of guy that when he walks in a room the spirit changes. His charisma and never ending positive attitude have always been something that I have admired. I was honored to stand as one who congratulated Mark on his graduation. When we all stood around and watched the video his dad had prepared it was all I could do to keep from losing it. It honestly seems like just yesterday I was looking at a boy growing up. Today, I found my self looking at a remarkable man! Mark, dude, I am so proud of you!
Here's a few things I think of when I think of Mark Maddox: aggressive, fun to be around, kind, tan, nice smile, strong, great basketball player, honest, full of integrity, committed, friend...
And one other thing. And I mean this. I am vertically challenged. I know Mark worries about this, so I'm going to make this clear...It is a Bouldin characteristic. I seem to have gotten the worst of it. As a result, growing up, knowing that I hated being short, my dad would say to me from time to time was, "it's not how big the man is Blake, it's his heart that matters." I remember thinking "yea right, dad!" But he WAS right. Seriously. So let me say to you Mark, it really is what's on the inside that counts. Right now the things that matter will pale in comparison to what God blesses you with. Life is so much more than dribbling a ball down a court and shooting it through a rim. Life is about family, it's about hard work, it's about loving the person God has chosen especially for you. It's about raising kids and teaching them the lessons that your parents have taught you. It's about loving God and honoring Him with the totality of your being. It is about making a difference. I feel like I have been able to do all those things on some level, and here is the best part, I didn't have to be tall to do them. You won't either. And you got the looks!
Finally, let me say this: Today, as I looked and you and tried not to stare, I honestly thought to myself (I really did) "There is a guy with a great big ol' heart. There is a guy that is destined for great things!" I believe that about you Mark - with all my heart. You are a reMARKable guy! God Bless You homey! Congratulations! I'm proud of you and I love you!
Uncle Blake
I haven't been able to read your blog as regularly as I want recently. But you're good! You often write the things I feel and you do it better than I could. Thanks for this article about Mark. You nailed him. I'm so proud of you both.
Dad
Posted by: Don | June 20, 2008 at 06:16 AM