Why are you so special ? You do not need to be somebody to dubbed special. Interestingly, the special needs population, are indeed special people. I spent more than 16 years  in the field of autism, mental retardation, mental illness, the study and work of the special needs people, is a remarkable experience. I learned a lot. It is humbling to note, many of the so-called slow and developmentally challenged people and children, are really faster and advanced, compared to many of us. They are advanced in many ways - not materialism. They live life as it should be, and not what it is. Their innocence protected them from the many pains and evil of the world. Their truthfulness enable them to smile at you without pretensions, and conditions. Some people values dogs compared to people. They should try working, if not adopting people or children with special needs, they are much better than dogs - they are human beings. I have dogs, but also look forward each day, enjoying the company of special people. 

There are special people out there. They serve others without conditions. They help others without publicity. They are honest and happy to help without strings attached. Why can't we just do that ? It could help us a lot. The many people serving the poor and the sick. The two health workers, who contracted the Ebola virus, took the risks, serving people. God will never forget that. As the Lord said, " If you lose your life in serving me, you will live again." It is difficult to understand this. It is perplexing and daunting to think about the consequences of doing the right things. Many Christians martyrs died  for others. Many non-Christians sacrificed because of their ideals. What is the difference between a non-Christian, and Christians of the 21st century ? If you have been chosen to become really special, you will know the answer. 
Peace.

In losing a dear friend, the pain can penetrate your inner most being. Losing a friend and a good man, a selfless soul of a man, is compounding that pain, penetrating your heart and mind. 

I met Past Grand Knight Jack Buonopane in 2009. An extremely likable person. Caring. Dedicated. A man of few words but honorable.
He was always there when you call on him. He was that dedicated, of a leader, and a person, he will not hesitate to give his shirt off his back at moments notice of a need. I cannot think of a grandiose word to describe Jack. 

Jack is a wonderful person to talk to. While I was serving as Grand Knight of the Braintree Council, I would see and talk to Jack after the mass on Sundays at St. Claire Church in Braintree. St. Claire is one of our parishes in the jurisdiction of the Braintree Council.
I usually (if I am not at work, with my regular employment) make it a point to talk and see Jack B., seeing and getting his wisdom on Council matters. PGK Jack B. was one of my Council advisers, while performing my role as grand knight of the Braintree Council of the Knights of Columbus. He was also in charge of the Tootsie Roll Program documents processing for applicants (children with disabilities) . He was exemplary in the performance of his council mandates.


Jack B., a friend, a brother, a father to everyone (Jack has no children, I have been teasing Jack for years to adopt me.), a husband a knight and good man who choose greatness by serving others. 

This poem ,I am dedicating to the great man who faded away, but soon we will see him, in the day promised. 

               
                 To Jack from us.

You are not just a man but a good man.
Your wonderful deeds were not forgotten.
You might have left, but we will see you again.
Today is yours, tomorrow ours. Now, you received your everlasting rewards for your greatness. 
You are surely missed, and adored.
You are part of us and you will always be.
You have touched so many hearts, you have changed so many lives.
Your commitment to serve not only our Council, but others, have earned a space in our Deity's mansion.
You have shared your kindness and gifts in making our difficult world, a better place to live.
You have embodied the ideals of modesty and kindness, your humility worthy of emulation.
How can we forget you ?