"My Dad's a little crazy - but he's great!" This brief description of you provided by Molly was all I knew about you before our first meeting and due to my strong feelings for Molly, I desperately wanted to make a good impression. We pulled up to the house just as you were pulling up after work. You jumped out of the car and bounded up the drive to hug her. I stuck out my hand to greet you and you grabbed my hand without a word and immediately starting thumb wrestling. I was mortified. Many years your junior and admittedly at the prime of my thumb wrestling career, I was at a moral crossroads. Do I swiftly defeat you to prove my manhood? Do I make it a good fight then respectfully bow out and let you prevail? Before I could make up my mind you used the controversial "forefinger karate kick" move and pinned my unsuspecting thumb instantly. We both laughed and from that moment on I felt like a member of your family. This disarming quality that is one of the many things I admire about you. You are able to break down barriers and relate to other people openly, honestly, and without formality.
This skill also allows you to relate well to children, with whom formality has no place. Watching you play with Will is a great joy and both Molly and I feel so fortunate to have a grandfather like you in his life. I never had a relationship with any grandparent and always envied friends that did. With the passing of my father last year, our relationship and your relationship with Will takes on a new level of importance. I sincerely appreciate the energy and passion for life that you bring to your interactions with all of us.

Congratulations on your retirement, and as you head into this new chapter in your life, I hope your heart is filled with even a fraction of the love and joy you provide to others.

Love,
Ben