One of Hoban's Finest

Every few years or so, a young incoming 9th grader enters the doors of Hoban who reminds me as to the real reason why I entered the teaching profession some 15 years ago. It can be so incredibly refreshing to have the privilege of teaching a young person who not only is gifted academically, but has a genuine passion for life. Robert Samels was not only at the top of his graduating class, but was an accomplished musician and actor. Quite simply, Robert was an exemplary Christian young man- one whom I would be truly proud to have my own son emulate.

I haven't been able to get Robert out of my mind all day since reading about his tragic plane crash this morning in today's Beacon Journal. At age 24, it would seem that Robert still had so much to offer to everyone. I had the pleasure of having Robert in my Honor's World Literature class a number of years ago- I have little doubt that he could have taught the class- he had a remarkable maturity and intellectual wit about him. But my fondest memories of Robert lay in music and acting. I casted Robert in his first high school play. He played Ophelia's zany father in a slap-stick spoof of a comedy entitled Hamlet II: better than the original. It was a great to see Robert have so much fun with his part since much of his high school career was dedicated to academic excellence. He was simply wonderful (and very funny, I might add) in the part. My other fond memory of Robert was being able to play with him at our school liturgies. I also invited him to play his hammer dulcimer at Christmas Vigil mass one year while I was still directing the music group over at Saint Vincent's. The entire congregation was simply in awe with his talent.

It's time like this when, for me, it's very difficult to understand and accept God's plans for us. Here's a kid who had just begun his life and had so much talent and joy to share with those around him. I can't imagine the sorrow and grief that Robert's family must be going through. All I know is that I am so thankful to have been given the opportunity to share in Robert's high school years. God bless you, Robert.