You may have noticed some of the signs around the university recently, referring to exhibitions and forthcoming graduations. It reminded me about an event in 2024, the emotional story of Lorenzo Monfardini, a story that went viral around the world. It was the video of his graduation. It transmits a simple but increasingly rare message: sincere gratitude to parents for the sacrifices they make for their children.

Monfardini was 22 years old at the time. Receiving his degree in production engineering from the Federal University of Ouro Preto in the Brazilian state of Minas Gerais, the young man walked across the stage carrying a heavy gas cylinder on his back. The object was far from being a simple prop. It represented the 26 years of work and dedication of his father, Jefferson Gomes Monfardini. His father built his career in the commercial sector of a gas company to guarantee better opportunities for his family. Visibly moved, Monfardini transformed that instant into a public homage of gratitude. Explaining the meaning behind the gesture, he said, “Dad, there are no words to express how grateful I am for everything you do for me. This cylinder represents your dedication.” The scene moved family members, colleagues, and thousands of internet users, who rapidly shared the video on social media.

The story resonated deeply because it speaks directly to the reality of millions of families. Many mothers and fathers face exhausting work hours, financial difficulties, and countless challenges to provide education and opportunities for their children; Monfardini’s gesture gave visibility to this frequently silent sacrifice. Behind every diploma, degree and college course, there are often years of self-denial, effort, and hard work by parents, who put their children’s dreams above their own.

For us Christians, the young man’s attitude particularly brings to mind the Fourth Commandment: “Honour your father and your mother.” More than just using words, Monfardini chose to express his gratitude through a concrete action; he publicly recognized the love and dedication he has received throughout his life. The sacrifices from which he benefited.

Our society is often marked by individualism and the constant search for personal recognition. In this context, his tribute as a reminder of the importance of gratitude, respect, and valuing our family and benefactors. Gratitude for all that we daily receive.

Not by chance, thousands of comments praised the beauty of the gesture. One message summarized the feelings of many: “Honouring your father and mother is the first step to becoming a human being of stature.” The phrase echoes the lesson left by the young graduate: Personal achievements gain an even greater meaning when we recognize the people who walked by our side and made each step of the journey possible. Those who prayed and worked to support our dreams. How true that is for all of us. God’s wisdom in His Commandments bearing fruit. Two years later, the story continues to move people. This is because it speaks to universal values that never age: love, sacrifice, gratitude, and family. In times filled with so much difficult news, Lorenzo Monfardini’s gesture remains a powerful testimony that recognizing the efforts and sacrifices of others, is still one of the most beautiful ways to honour them, and honour God.

Fr David Jones OLW