Reflection on Grandpa's 90th. Birthday by Jon Scharfenberger

First of all, congratulations on your 90th Birthday. Not many can say that they've traversed and survived the winding roads of life as you have. I can only hope to live to half of that age and you and I both know you are in better shape than all of your grandchildren combined!

You have always held that as the youth are taught, so goes a nation. And you have lived that belief. I am a personal recipient of that idea.

Whether it has been learning how to create a fire in a fireplace at 4 years old, pruning and planting trees at 7, learning about the war with stories and relics at 10, how to properly exercise and lift weights at 15, the education system and benefits of voucher programs at 17, or even as recent as a month ago - at receiving simple yet powerful advice from you on how to handle a broken relationship. You have been more than just a loving grandfather throughout my life. You have been a teacher, a mentor, and a profound example of what it means to truly be a Man.
I have learned that to be a man, one must be committed to solid principles and standards. He must be dedicated to family, God and his country. He must focus his energies on causes he finds worthy. He must be a man of constant faith and courageous behavior.

 I will always remember the night you received an award back in 1997, where in your speech you said: "Throughout my life, I have realized that a leader is not born, he is made."

I will always attribute that line to you. You have constantly made clear that being a leader involves growth and change, but always holds firms in his beliefs. Through your work and leadership in the cause for educational freedom - you have inspired me to work towards causes, such as the pro-life movement, that I hope to have an impact on.

As I grow older, I come to deeply appreciate all that you have taught me and continue to teach me. It began early as a child and has developed into my early adult life. While my journey may just be beginning, I will forever be grateful to the lessons and wisdom I have learned from an inspiring man and leader who has been so much more than just a good and loving grandfather. Indeed, as the youth are taught, so goes a nation. Happy 90th!

Love,

Jon

(N.B.) This was included in album for Ed's 90th. Birthday from his grandson, Jon, who passed away in 2011, one year after his grandpa's birthday.