Remembering...

 Originally posted on Wordpress 08/19/18


Thought of my dad all day yesterday, as I contemplated how he would have been celebrating his 77th birthday. Hoping he would be pleased with how those who loved him so much, are trying to carry on with the legacy he provided. He believed in loving others, being reasonable in all things, helping others (with careful consideration to make sure “the help” was appropriate), and never thinking too much of himself.

At work I encourage families to talk with the patient about how the loved one has made a difference with their life, how they will be remembered, what the family will miss, what the family is grateful for, in regards to the patient, and how the patient’s legacy will continue. I was not aware of this idea when my dad was in hospice, but I like to think he knew these things. Dad definitely made a difference with his life by loving fiercely, and passionately. He is remembered as someone who knew what was important, and what wasn’t. He is remembered every single day. I miss being able to hear him say “let’s think about this” when I am not sure what to do. I am grateful for his unconditional love, careful, gentle guidance, and the way he taught me through example. His legacy continues in his wife, children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, brothers, sisters, in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who were impacted by the way he lived, and who strive to love and help others the way he did.

Dad would not be pleased if I made him out to be a saint. He was not perfect, and would have been the first one to point it out, but he was definitely the perfect daddy for me. Happy birthday dad…I am so glad you were born.

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