You have a very precious gift in your son. I was rooting for him to get into the program there. I got a little sad when he didn't. You and your husband handled the situation very well. You even cheered me up after the disappointment.

Many parents downplay the importance of assuring their children. They believe that whatever happens to them now won't affect their future, that they'll get over it. That is killing a child very early in life.
I wish such people could read this post and change perspective.