The Lion Heart Triumphs...

Day 19:

"I firmly believe that any man's finest hour, the greatest fulfillment of all he holds dear, is that moment when he has worked his heart out in a good cause and lies exhausted on the field of battle - victorious." --Vince Lombardi

This quote has always been one of my favorites, Conor. And for you, Conor An Chroí Lion, a fitting tribute to your early trials with us on this Earth. It's been a whirlwind 19 days, Son. I've seen you come through challenges that would test the most hardened man, and you've come through them with a determination and strength long forgotten by those who would take advantage of all that is given to them. You've battled for life and I believe this will define you as you grow.

From your first breath you've been fighting. Fighting to breathe, fighting to eat, fighting to develop into the strong young boy you are, and the fine man you will no doubt become. And through it all, nary a fuss. Needles and tubes and wires and machines, and you've endured it all with grace. The strength of a Lion. Conor the Lion Heart.

Now, many people would argue these triumphs aren't as much about your strength, will, and character as they're more based in the advancement of modern medicine and technology... And to be sure they'd be right, though to a point. The world we live in undoubtedly affords us the benefit of the modern age. However, I believe that a man's heart is what defines him. And from the first time I heard the beating of your heart on an ultrasound and doppler what seems like a lifetime ago, I knew. I just knew you'd be so strong. You've exceeded whatever expectation I had, Son. What lies ahead are what I consider to be lifetimes of wonderful experiences, beautiful sights, bewildering sounds, and many, many challenges. But I know in my heart, that you'll take them all on, and that you'll win, Conor. Because it's all you know how to do, Son.

Another quote I love is maybe the simplest of all quotes... "Never, Never, Never Give Up." --Winston Churchill
You don't have an ounce of quit in you, Son. And you've taught me to remember the same. And I'll be right here with you for as long as God will allow. And I'll share every victory...

I'm so proud of you, Conor. Conor the Lion Heart. Conor An Chroí Lion. For tomorrow, you come home. Victorious.

I love you.
-Dad