The Spotlight is Shining on Quince

Unfortunately, I haven't kept my word about putting the spotlight on someone each Friday. I'll try to do better. I've had so much to juggle lately it seems; however, I do try to be a woman of my word and would like to get back to what I initially said I would do.

Today, the spotlight is shining on Quince, my teenage Godson. I've been spending more time with him lately now that he has graduated from high school in Bermuda and has come abroad for the next phase of his educational journey. He has impressed me with his desire and courage to embrace a field that I don't know to be typically explored by teenagers. From what I've observed or have been told or have experienced myself, many teenagers his age are simply trying to figure out exactly where they want to go in life, and that is fine. The timetable of life is not the same for everyone. We're unique. I respect that. Knowing "what we'll be when we grow up" doesn't always just click instantly for many of us. However, I can't help but be impressed that Quince appears to be totally clear that he wants to be an Underwater Mechanic. Yes, an Underwater Mechanic!

He's serious. He's focused. He's determined. He's calm and smiles a lot amidst such a rigorous school schedule to help him meet his career goals. I mean, what teenager is okay with getting up super early each day to participate in major physical training -- followed by a good dose of morning swimming -- prior to attending an 8:00 a.m., class followed by more classes until about 5:00 p.m.

A few nights ago, I got an e-mail from Quince at about 11:00 p.m., and wondered what on earth he was doing up that late knowing the type of schedule he now has. When I spoke to him on the phone and asked why he was up that late, he replied: "I was studying.....for my physics test." Physics is a subject Quince hasn't had a lot of experience with, so he figured that would be a tough test for him. But, he scored a 90 percent on it. Way to go, Future Underwater Mechanic!

Last weekend, when Quince spent the weekend with us, I noticed he brought his books along with him. When I asked if he had homework, his reply was, "No, I just want to go over some things I'm not sure about it." For the Physics test. Impressive! On Sunday morning, when I came out of my bedroom, I noticed Quince at the kitchen table reviewing his school material. This boy is serious, I thought. You know, I often visualize his mom (one of my dearest friends -- we go way back) saying to Quince while hugging him on the day we took him to his new school: "Do your best...okay, Quince!" From what I can tell, he has started out doing just that. His best.

Quince recently celebrated his birthday, so that's another reason why I want to shine the spotlight on him today. Happy Birthday, Quince! You have so much to be proud of. . You have so much future ahead of you. Your parents, your siblings....so many of us are rooting for you and finding great joy in cheering you on. Oh geez, I feel my eyes welling up, so I'll pause here and just let the spotlight shine on our future Underwater Mechanic......the amazing Quince!!!

Quince, keep up the fabulous work. Stay focused. Stay true to yourself. Stay true to God. Stay true to your lessons learned from your parents and other positive role models you have in your life. You are destined for some great experiences.......a road that many of us may never travel but will surely have the pleasure of "living" those adventurous experiences through you.

Hugs from Godma Penny! Love from all of those who love you so much!