This morning I sent emails to a group of Jacob’s best friends:

I am planning a Manhood ceremony for Jacob on August 13th at 2 pm, and I am asking you to consider participating.  The purpose of the ceremony is to affirm Jacob as he passes from boyhood to manhood, and will be held at St. Peter school in Bartz Hall.  A number of men are participating (including your father) and I am asking those friends of Jacob's who know him best to participate as well.

What I ask of you is to write a short paragraph on something that you believe that Jacob does well, and read it during the ceremony.  Additionally, I would like for you to write a sentence on something you believe that Jacob needs to watch out for as he goes through life, such as a tendency to talk too much, for example.  The first will be read publicly, and both parts will be given to Jacob for him to read privately.

If you are unable to attend, please consider writing the two short paragraphs so I can include them with paragraphs from others in a small binder for Jacob's use in the future.

In any event, please do not discuss this with Jacob as I would like for this to be a surprise for him.

Please let me know at your earliest convenience, and don't hesitate to contact me with any questions you may have.  More information about the ceremony is available at my website, www.harperhill.net.

Thanks, and best regards,

Mr. Harper

If your son receives one of these, please encourage him to participate. I believe it vital that Jacob’s respected peers, those that know him best, participate as well. In addition to the affirmation of something he does well, I have asked them to point out a (potential) weakness to balance out the praise.