Sunday, May 25, 2008
Dear Rocco Winchester Nugent, a few days away from being a high school graduate:
It has been quite the journey since that hot summer day, July 22, 1990, when I had to leave your mother in labor to go rock out in Altoona, Pa., while you struggled to erupt into this world.
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You made quite an impression that day, and continue to do so all these years later.
In this wild, often confusing world of runaway good, bad and ugly, I am here to tell you that your mother and I, your brother and sisters and entire extended Nuge family are all so very proud of you that we could burst.
If God ever made the ultimate son, he surely gave you to us. And believe you me, we all know that ain't easy in 2008 and beyond.
You are a real man with much heart and soul. God bless you, son.
Just living with you and witnessing your gung-ho dedication to schoolwork, basketball and always being the best that you can be is so wonderfully refreshing and oh-so-relieving in this world today. Whew.
The way that you carry and conduct yourself is all any parent could ask for.
To see such a young man with such a warrior work ethic, well-spoken, conscientious, is always exceedingly pleasing to everyone who cares. For that young man to be my own son, I thank God each and every day.
I thank you, too. Each day it is you who makes the choices, and you make the right ones with great consistency.
If your mother and I could keep track of all the unsolicited compliments we receive about your politeness and good will, we could fill a voluminous book.
We are so very thankful that you have rejected the lie of "peer pressure" and that you boldly, bravely, live your own life in your own way.
Let all young people take note in your actions and attitudes: People are not sheep. Independence and individualism are the foundations for a rewarding quality of life.
You are a leader, Son, not a follower. Hold your head up high.
Close relationship
I know I am not always there, what with my adventurous life of untamed rock-'n'-roll touring and hunting trips. But as I spend more and more time at home, I know our relationship is a loving, full one that not many kids have in this hectic world.
That we talk about life's wild twists and turns on a daily basis brings me much satisfaction and confidence that your mother and I are raising you properly.
An interviewer asked me the other day whether I am most proud of the big game trophies on my wall or all those platinum records. Without missing a beat, I made it clear: Those things are cool, but all one has to do is meet my children to see that of which I am most proud. Nothing else compares.
So, as you wrap up the wild adventures of high school and prepare to charge out into this wild, crazy world on your own, know that the important things in life are still God, family, country, honesty and honor.
If you stay on course, with a little luck the rest of your life will be as interesting, rewarding and joyful as your first 18 years.
Your mother and I are never more than a phone call away. There is nothing your family wouldn't do for you.
We are like a commando unit, all for one and one for all. I love you, Son. Now, let's plan that hunting trip together.
And don't forget to get out there and feed the dogs and clean their kennels for me.
All my love,
— Dad
Ted Nugent is a Waco-based musician and television show host. Contact him directly at tednugent.com.
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