"To my grandchildren, Jessica, Angela, Chloe, Zach, Aaron and Matthew, and great grandson Tristan:

'If I were to give you (or anyone else) words of wisdom (unlikely, since my life should demonstrate any wisdom or lack thereof), I would tell you this:

Life isn't a straight highway from birth to our final destination. There are curves and washouts and detours, and you may never reach where you think you're going, but the trip itself is a glorious adventure.

Each day provides new choices about the road to take. Your elders tried to give you guidelines, but you'll also plant your own markers and alter your destinations.

I encourage you to involve yourself each mile of the journey and have the courage to get off the familiar road and take alternative routes. Dare to embark on the next journey.'"