My Dad

I've been away a bit.  Some will understand when I say that I needed a bit of time away…  you see, my Dad died about a month ago.  He is/was a hero of mine; I love him more than I can put into words.  

Some may wonder why I need(ed) time to grieve, after all, he was 96 years old. But I couldn't imagine this world without him.  Until about three years ago he was in amazing health. Then he did OK until about a year ago. This past year has seen a steady decline, although he's been living on his own and his determination and drive to live his life to the fullest has been without question.




He passed in the most kind and gentle ways possible; he had gotten up and ready for breakfast, then he evidently sat back down on the bed and passed away.  So after 40 years apart, he is finally reunited with the love of his life, my Mom.  Another incredibly amazing person who still influences my life for good today.  





My Dad was born in very, very humble circumstances in Kansas. So it was there we returned him to be encircled again by family.  The cemetery is across the road from the farm where Dad grew up. Close to him are my grandparents, my uncle and aunts and many others.  As I stood and looked out over the rolling hills, in my mind's eye I could see my dad and his brothers running through the fields. 

Healing takes time.  It doesn't seem real most of the time.  A couple weeks ago I was at the store and saw they had Valentine's Day cards available and my first thought was that I needed to find one for Dad so I could he would have it before Valentine's... and then reality hit.  I have written to him or emailed regularly and I miss that.  We put his townhouse on the market and it sold almost immediately.  He had lived there for longer than any other place in his life -- 24 years -- so many holidays, evening meals, watching sports (with the sound turned off as he liked it better that way), hearing stories from his life.  It is still surreal that I will never go visit him there again.

Through it all, I know and understand the Plan of Salvation, also known as the Plan of Happiness.  I know Dad is now surrounded by the people he loved and who loved him most in life.  I understand that death is a part of this mortal life and I am so very, very thankful for "goodly parents" who loved us. I am so very thankful for wonderful memories, for having been raised in a humble, but safe home by parents who cared.  

I am so very grateful to know beyond doubt that 

Families are Forever 

and the day will come when we will be reunited.  

The fullness of 

the Gospel of Jesus Christ 

has been restored.  

He lives, and because of this, we will also live.

I love you, Dad.