I am getting ready to go to Houston to bury my father. He has had Alzheimer's for some time, so in some ways he has already been gone, but this physical leaving is different. And it is harder than I thought it would be. I thought I had already been saying goodbye.
This picture was taken two years ago at his 90th Birthday party. He was already in the early stages of his disease then and wasn't sure who all the people were who gathered to celebrate, but he thought they were "nice folks."
I will have the honor of doing the Eulogy, and the following is an excerpt from what I will say:
It was my father who told me so many years ago that it is not so foolish to pursue a dream.
It was my father who told me that I should make choices in my life according to what would make me happy, even if the world doesn't approve of my choices.
It was my father who told me to give an honest day's work for an honest day's wage.
It was my father who told me to consider any stranger a potential new friend.
It was my father who told me that it's not what you are that's important, but who you are.
And above all, it was my father who told me that while he doesn't have much to show for his life; no big house, no fancy car, no grand retirement spot where he can spend his social security in luxury, he's got us, his children, to stand as monuments of accomplishment. He considers it time well spent.
It’s no surprise then, that family is my greatest treasure.
Rest in Peace, Popso.
8 comments:
Maryann,
My deepest sympathy. My father died 15 years ago and had Alzheimer's for 7 years before he died. So I understand the feeling that you've been saying goodbye but now it's different.
Memories of your dad will live forever in your heart. I know how hard it is to say goodbye.
Please accept my deepest sympathy and condolences. My grandfather also had Alzheimer's for several years before he died. It's certainly a difficult thing to go through for all. I trust that you will hold on to what must be many fond memories of your dad. May he rest in peace and may God bless all of you especially at this time.
Thanks for all the condolences. One thing is so true, we are never alone in our difficulties.
It sounds as if you had a wonderful relationship with your father, filled with love and sharing. Those are precious memories to have.
Lovely thoughts about your father. My dad passed away when he was still in his 80s. He'd been in such horrible pain that it was truly a blessing. Of course we miss him.
I'll be praying for you and your family.
My father died of mesothelioma, with all of his mental faculties intact. It was torture for all of us. My mother-in-law had Alzheimer's and was lost to us years before she died. That was worse for everyone.
Prayers to you and your family in this time of grief and pain.
Thanks again to everyone who left kind words here, as well as on the lists I belong to. All much appreciated.
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