Better Because He Lived

He was humble.  He was not someone who would be remembered for amazing accomplishments or any claim to fame.  Yet, the fact that he lived and how he chose to live made a huge impact on those who knew him.  Those who knew him are better because they did.  

Dad was raised during a time when children often had to work with their parents to support their family.  I believe this helped develop a strong work ethic and sense of responsibility to help others at an early age.  He entered the Navy at a young age, further developing his sense of duty and sacrifice.

When I was a child, I thought my dad knew everything.  It seemed like he usually had an answer for any question I had.  He was an avid reader, had traveled extensively through his military service, and had a great memory.  All probably helped him be able to amaze me with his knowledge.  As I got older, I admired him more for his wisdom.

My dad was also an excellent provider for his family.  I never felt as though I lacked anything, yet we were not what most would consider rich.  In fact, I remember him once saying how he wished he could give me more.  Dad not only took care of his family, but he was also very generous to others.  He provided financial help to others, lent a hand when one was needed, gave rides, and provided a place to live to various extended family members at different times.

If you needed a laugh, my dad was sure to provide.  He had a quick wit and loved to playfully tease people.   And, he could say funny things without cracking a smile.  When I was little, there were times that I wasn’t sure if he was serious or joking.  His sense of humor was charming, and it served him well throughout his life.  In fact, one of the workers in the assisted living facility started calling him “Hercules.”  When I asked her why, she said that once she had come to his door to bring him something, and he jokingly told her she was just there to see his “herculean body.”  So the name “Hercules” stuck.

Even though my dad had heart problems for many years, he had the biggest heart of anyone I know.  His love for my mom was so tender and kind, despite the impact of dementia on her mind and behavior.   Many times in both my childhood and adulthood, I saw him show compassion to many, both strangers and those we knew.  He was consistent in putting others’ needs before his own.  And, you could not find a more devoted dad, grandfather, and great-grandfather.  It was a joy to watch him with his grandchildren and great-granddaughters.  Each knew they were deeply loved by their papa.

 His absence is greatly felt, not just by his family, but by countless friends and acquaintances as well.  I was reminded by a friend recently of just how blessed I am to have had such a good dad, and that not everyone is so lucky.  I am forever grateful to my heavenly Father for giving me such an amazing earthly father, and I look forward to the day when I can see him again.

A Little Less Crazy, PLEASE

Have you ever had a period of time when crazy, random events keep happening?  One of those times where you just want to throw up your hands and shout, “Are you kidding me?!”  The past couple of weeks have been like that for me.  It’s a good thing I have a good sense of humor.

The first strange, recent event happened after I stopped at the strawberry stand for half a flat of strawberries.  I was on my way to visit my dad, who had just come home from a stay in the hospital.  I decided to take one of the baskets to him.  As I was carrying it into his assisted living place, one of the residents, walked up to me, reached over my shoulder and said, “Let me try a strawberry,” as he proceeded to try to grab one.  I turned quickly and pulled away the basket, telling him they were for my dad.

Then, about a week later, we were at the hospital again.  This time, Dad was in the ER, and my sister and I had gone to get a coffee.  We were heading back in with said coffee, when this guy tried to grab my coffee.  Again, my quick ninja-like moves, saved my coffee, and my big sister (always my protector), yelled at the guy to leave me alone.

The last “crazy” thing, though, was definitely more upsetting.  Fast forward another week, and I was leaving my nephew’s house.  My sister and her daughter were in the car ahead of me.  I was stopping at a redlight, looked up in the rearview mirror, and noticed that the woman behind me was looking down (likely at her phone).  I caught her wide-eyed look and her mouthing the words, “Oh no” as she realized she just hit me.  I motioned for her to follow me to pull over.  She acted like she was going to pull behind me and promptly sped away.  Thankfully, there was relatively little damage to my car (which I am wanting to replace), and no damage to me (which I can’t replace).

Needless to say, I’m not sure if I just need to stay in bed for a couple of days to avoid any more craziness.  However, I am up and hopeful for what this new day might bring.