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What's in a name?

What's in a name? That which we call a rose
By any other name would smell as sweet.


- Romeo and Juliet


Honor your fathers and your mothers. Honor the names that you bear, because some day you will have the privilege and the obligation of reporting to them (and to your Father in heaven) what you have done with their name.


- George Albert Smith

My name is Fredrick William Cobabe, III. I am named for my father and for my grandfather. I have always been proud of my name, proud that I shared it with men of such character. I know that as men we are fallible, that we have faults and weakness. But I have come to understand that weaknesses are given for us to overcome, like the enemy that they are - the enemy of our peace, of our happiness, of our eternal progression. God gives us these weaknesses so that we can be strong.

Some of these weaknesses are spiritual, mental, or psychological. Others are physical.

Last night grandpa had a heart attack. He's in the hospital right now. I am not afraid for him, though. I know the kind of life he's lived and where he's headed. I would like to spend time with him again, if God is willing. But if God needs him, His will be done.

Grandpa has seen a lot in his life. He was married to my grandmother when he was just 18 - she was just 16 (!) - and they have had an amazing go at life together. They've suffered all kinds of reverses, had amazing blessings, and laughed and cried together through it all. God has been kind to them for the most part, giving them assurances and hope for a better world.

I have never known grandpa to say a cutting or negative remark about anyone. He is so full of patience, love, kindness and understanding... I hope that someday I can measure up.

Grandpa always has time for questions. He is never impatient or cross. He loves to sit and talk and tell stories.  He can never finish his own jokes without laughing so hard he can't even finish.

I miss you grandpa. I hope you get better. I love you. I am proud - so very proud - to share your name.


*** UPDATE***

Just got a note from grandma - (sic) :-):

rHEY PUT A sTENT IN bILLS HEART LAST NIGHT AND HE IS DOING MUCH BEYYER TODAY. wE APPRECIATE ALL THE PRAYERS AND CONCERN.bETH WAS WITH ME AND jIM SO WE ARE DOING BETTER TODAY. i HAD SURGERY ON MY RIGHT FOOT ON fRIDAY SO i CANT DRIVE YET jIM IS MY CHAUFFEUR Oh I just looked at what I am doing and did not know the caps lock was on. Sorry about that.I never did learn to type as you might have guessed.Any way Bill is doing better and I had a good nights sleep. The sun is shunning and the daffodils and tulips are blooming!!!! It is a good day here. Hope you have a great day also. Love Mary

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