This evening was a magical event, and in reflection of a life torn apart by an unforeseeable addiction. The love generated at this event I will never forget. The table I was seated at included one of Brent’s closest frineds and many of the Shapario’s longtime friends of 20 years or more. Iwas blessed to atend this event and lsiten to Bob and Linel speak of their love for their son and Grant, his brother spoke lovingly abut his brother. I was moved and touched like I have never been moved and touched before. I cried when I walked across the red carpet and saw in the foyer large photogrpahs in rememberence of Brent Shapiro. Brent was larger than life, a full life taken much too soon. Bob and Linell’s cartoon and speech of their fondest of memories of Brent moved me to tears, and when I think about their speech, and I often do, I still cry. We ALL will never forget him, his life and his love of his family and life. When Linell stated “I loved him every day of his life for he was my son!” Rings true for all of us who have lost someone to them affliction.

Love and Affection, Mz. Tracy Green, Beverly Hills, CA

It was sad to hear about Russert today, even though I know he’s in a better place.

I thought what happened to his friend would make him think, but no, they go on partying. He is a good kid, though, and I just hope the experimenting will soon loose its appeal.

I’ve never been around anyone who was on drugs and hope never to be around anyone who is on them. I’m sure that would scare me. I’ve heard other people who have had so much trouble with their kids from drugs and alcohol and I feel so lucky not to have had to go through that with mine. So very lucky.

Joy, I will pray for your son and his friends.

Did their son not understand?

This is bold, but I was thinking about how hard it must be to be an attorney.

Guess, it has more to do with sacrifice and forgiveness, and ethics than a lot of us are comfortable with.

I personally don’t think a career is worth it, but maybe something else is. Maybe there’s some special integrity, or strength, or guts, or more.

I know they must miss their son, and I know like most parents they must feel some guilt.

Hope is a good thing, I hope OJ was not protected and guilty.

I agree with you, peer pressure is a powerful thing!!

I see what it is doing to my son and his friends, and pray to God they will wisen up soon enough.

I had my days of experimenting and it was good and it was wild and by the grace of God I am still alive.

But not everyone is that lucky. My son’s friend (over in Africa) ran over and killed 2 little children a month ago, he was driving under the influence of alcohol.

My 16 year old niece and her friend was ran over and killed by an 18-year old drunk driver few years ago.

I think of the young American girl in Italy that apparently killed her roommate last year after a day of heavy smoking, not sure if it was marijuana.

ONe thing I have seen is that even if people have ALL THE INFORMATION, it does not always change behaviour.

With all the information on the dangers of cigarette smoking, I am still amazed that everybody around me is still smoking like their lives depend on it.

I just popped in here and decided to read these comments. I find it impressive that your husband chose you over booze. Good for you.

My hubby does not drink either. He does not have to drink to have fun. My oldest son gave up everything over a year ago and doing great. But I still keep a very close eye out for him always.