Mom Thatcher

I’ve known Aaron longer than anyone else.  I’m his mother.  I  have watched him grow from a perfect baby to a stubborn two year old and on through his growing up years into a fine man worthy of emulation.  It has been fun seeing his many accomplishments in sports, employment and family but what brings me the most joy concerning him has always been his greatness of character – the qualities of goodness that are a part of him.  He is an example of faith, courage, uprightness, diligence, hard work, integrity and honor.  I know that any young person can listen and learn from him.  In seeing his example and listening to his counsel they will have a desire to grow and stretch and become better themselves.

In the varied circumstances of his life he has always been true to his principles.  He grew up playing sports and has lived in the often – not so uplifting world – of professional sports. But through all of this he has lived courageously, being true to his best self.   Even in the culture of the sports world, his own language has been pure – never using a swear word – not one.  He has been true to himself in other things as well.  He has never smoked or used alcohol or drugs.  He held himself to a higher standard.  He has led a life of virtue.  Courage and honor have been his companions.

Many have looked to him as an example.  He has found respect from all who have associated with him.  In high school he was known as the gentle giant.  All knew him for his athletic prowess but loved him for his goodness, his kindness to others and his humility.  He was a friend to all – the physically or mentally challenged were his special friends.  Others wanted to be like him in the important qualities of character and his example showed them how to walk a higher path.

Aaron was scouted by every major league baseball team, as a big left-handed pitcher who could throw bullets in the 90′s. He was highly recruited and promised a first round draft pick and a lot of money, if he would only give up going on a mission for his church.  But a mission was his dream and a heart felt duty, so Aaron told them all that though he would love to play professional baseball, he was determined to serve an LDS mission.

The Minnesota Twins drafted him anyway allowing him to serve the mission and then return to play.  He loved baseball and left their organization only after 4 surgeries on his shoulder left him unable to pitch.  He was saddened that he had not been able to use his abilities to pitch for the Twins who had been so good to him even offering to repay all they had spent on him.  But the general manager assured him, “Aaron, you have been a credit to the Twins, to your family, to your Church and your community.”

What really matters in life is what you have become as an individual.  Aaron’s truly great accomplishments began with his marriage to “Sweet Lorraine” and the coming of their 6 children.  Aaron and Lorraine have met health challenges with their children with the same courage and faith that they had demonstrated in their earlier lives.

Aaron is a great husband and father.  He works hard and without complaint.  He is gentle and kind at home where it matters most. No matter how busy or stressed, he is infinitely patient and loving with his children always finding time to listen to them and enjoy them.  He has earned their trust and love.

Aaron is ever kind and thoughtful, friendly, courageous, hardworking, highly organized, gentle, honest and true.  You can learn from him – I surely have.  No mother ever had a finer son. I love you Aaron.  You fill my heart with every good feeling a mother can have.  What a blessing you have been to dad and I.  You are an example not only to everyone else but to your mom and dad as well.  When I grow up I want to be like you Big A.

I love you,

Mom