I Do Hope I Won’t Be Too Hard on You

Two pages from my baby book, including my first picture, which my dad labeled “Neanderthal Man”

The first note my dad ever wrote to me was in my baby book. I was not quite five months old.

January 26, 1972

Brendan, me boy,

I trust, lad, that the time will come when you will exhibit a bit more intelligence than that presently displayed. You are on your third day of diarrahea (sp?), and you seem to enjoy it! I had rather expected you to exercise a bit more control by now.

Actually, Brendan, I am quite proud of you. I get rather excited when I think of your future. I do hope I won’t be too hard on you. Love God and your fellow man, and serve both. Remember the Sermon on the Mount.

Peace,

Your Father