Today is a grand day. My little brother, Rob, earned his doctorate from the University of Michigan. I cannot tell you how proud I am of him and his accomplishments. It’s been a long road for him and his beautiful wife, but I’m sure they feel that it’s all worth it. You go, Rob. I said I would never stoop to call you Dr. Dodde, but, as you can see, I can’t contain my pride. 
As Rob’s big sister, I do feel that I have some share in the credit for this achievement. This mostly all falls into the “what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger” category:
- All those times I called you names (remember “boyhood?”), well that built you up so that you could go into your defense knowing that nothing they could say could stand in your way.
- That softball I hit right at you and hit you in the gut could have hit you in the head or chest instead. Yes, you’re welcome for my consideration.
- Remember that time you jumped on the hood of my Escort in the parking lot of St. Mary Magdalen after coffee and donuts? I was tempted to hit the brakes hard, but I don’t like to disappoint Mom and Dad so I just slowed down with care.
Letting you live is one thing, but here’s what this really taught you: Run with all your might after your dreams. If necessary, wrestle those dreams into submission and then the world will be yours. Today, my dear brother, it is.
I love you, Dr. Dodde! Congratulations!
