I read about Jimmy Gracey this week. If you haven’t yet, take a few minutes to read his story.

Jimmy was from Illinois. He attended a private school, like you did. He played hockey – by all accounts, he was talented, committed, and loved by his teammates. He was raised in a faith-centered home. The kind of environment that shapes not just good athletes, but good people.

He was in Barcelona visiting friends over spring break.

It’s hard to even process.

And yet, when I read about him, I didn’t just feel sadness. I felt something else, too.

I thought about his parents.

What loving parents, to support his desire to travel across the world to be with friends. To say yes to that kind of experience. I imagine there may have been some hesitation – there would have been for me – but they let him go. That takes strength.

There’s a photo of Jimmy and his friends standing in front of La Sagrada Familia. It stopped me. It’s everything travel should be – friendship, exploration, perspective. Growth you can’t replicate at home. It reminded me of the photo we have with you in that same place, when we took you to Barcelona in fifth grade for soccer. Those moments matter. They shape you.

His parents also invested in him – his education, his sport, his character. Private school. Hockey. Time, money, energy. The same things we’ve poured into you. And we would do it all again without hesitation. Because young men like Jimmy – and like you – are often the result of that kind of investment – grounded, driven, and respected by the people around them.

And then there are the tributes.

I didn’t know Jimmy. I hadn’t heard his name before this week. But you can see it in his face – his goodness. And you can feel it in the words people have shared. Faith-filled. Kind. A loyal friend. The kind of person others are better for having known.

This feels a little closer to home right now.

You just arrived in Panama City Beach with your teammates. Nineteen years old. Your first real trip like this, on your own. And I’ll be honest – I’ve had to loosen my grip a little. You’ve grown this year at college. You were ready for it.

So while there’s a natural nervousness, there’s also peace.

Because this is part of it. The next step. The same kind of opportunity Jimmy’s parents gave him. And the same kind of opportunity I want for you.

Letting you go isn’t easy.
But it’s necessary.

So here’s my request:

Go out. Experience it. Be present with your friends. Be responsible and accountable for yourself and the people around you. Say yes to the adventure – but stay aware. Make smart decisions. Look out for each other.

And know this – at home, your parents are praying for you. For a trip filled with memories, laughter, and joy. For you to make good choices. And for you to come home safe.

Soar, son.

Love, Mom