TRE AMICI

I continue to be both humbled and inspired by the special people God puts in my life.

Three of those individuals are Franco Pontello, Joe Vaira and Sam Dibari.

I was their math teacher thirty five years ago; now they're the teachers, the ones giving lessons about friendship, loyalty and service.

Last night, the tre amici treated me to a wonderful dinner at an Italian restaurant in Maple. This is the second time they’ve reached out and invited me to join in their special camaraderie.

We shared lots of stories about the good old days and surprisingly, they all had tales about Father Trainor, the friendly Brebeuf College librarian/religion and math teacher.

Now all in their fifties, it was delightful to hear about the amici’s personal interests which include long distance cycling (as long as Franco can stay on his bike), camping in frigid weather ( don’t forget the down sleeping bag Joe ) and trips to Las Vegas ( next time, Sam, bring along your card shark dad, Michelangelo Toronto).

Their tight bond of friendship has a simple common denominator….respect and compassion for others.

Indeed, I felt privileged to share in their generosity and caring.

They are men who bring hope and happiness to others, even though some of their jokes can’t be shared in a General Admission blog like mine.

Thanks again gentlemen, you’re a class act.