Missing you much

My mood has been slightly pensive since yesterday for today is my father’s death anniversary - 22 years gone.

What has come up in my prayers as I sit with my memories of his last days on earth is how blessed we all were during those awfully challenging days.

Blessed because God sent many angels to minister to him. Someone (I don’t even know his name) would come pray with him regularly as did my cousin E. My uncle P would come and administer the Eucharist to him every week.  The hospice nurse and doctor would pop by to dispense advice as well. My cousin A would visit frequently, and he also helped out with expenses. My aunt S would cook for him and bring him lunch frequently as well.

Throughout all this, I got to witness my Dad’s courage and tenacity as well as his transformation from a man who had transgressed a lot into a man who came back to God and got to know Jesus in a very special way. He exuded a deep peace that spoke of great spiritual healing, and he prayed, offering up his suffering for others. 

I know he is now with Jesus in heaven and he continues to pray for all those whom he loved - not just my mother and us, his children, but my entire extended family. My father had a great love for family and he exercised a generous love with all of us. I know that generosity of heart is still doing good things for those of us who are left behind. 

Thank you, Dad, from the bottom of my heart. Your one and only.