Today marks the 19th anniversary of the day my father went on to be with the Lord.
He never got to meet the man I would marry. Never got to meet his two youngest little grand daughters.
But I'm hoping he can view a glimpse of them through heaven's window...and if so, I know he's smiling.
Born in 1925, my dad was my parent's only child in a land that would soon be overcome by the Depression and hot, dusty Texas winds. But he was known to make his many aunts smile and coo over his cute little face, always seconds away from a smile and giggle.
(A story from his childhood can be found here.)
There would be so many changes in his life in the decades to come....some good....some terrible...along with many battles to be fought and finally overcome.
To tell stories of just the parts I know would take months. How he married for the first time at only age 17...became a father at 18... later married my mother...struggled for years with alcoholism...returned to the Lord...and in his later years, with my mom, became a licensed minister.
But there is so much more to all of this...so much living that went in between the dots and phrases mentioned.
He made some mistakes throughout his life and was less than perfect. But his many good qualities, such as tenderness and compassion, were tremendous.
Maybe because he had experienced God's mercy and compassion first hand.
Nineteen years, with all the changes in my own life, seems like a century ago. Yet I can still see his face in my mind, and hear his voice.
And he is missed.
In Memory of Dad... 1925-1988
(Another brief mention and old picture of Dad can be found here.)
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22 comments:
What a touching tribute on this 19th anniversary, Tammy.
Brian's father died last year--he never got to know that we are going to have a baby. But somehow we wonder if he's already met our little boy.
XO,
Jill
Tammy what a lovely post about your dad. Very sweet. And the "less than perfect" part. I will join his club. So am I. Less, that is. But then again, aren't we all.
I am reading a book whose premise pretty much says it. We are "created a little lower than the angels". I say we need to know our place and give ourselves a break.
*Hugs-a-bunch*
I am just beginning to understand that you will never stop missing your dad.
A beautiful memory, Tammy! I love that you included pictures here. It's so hard to lose a loved one, but I'm always so greatful that we have photos and videos (of some) to remind us of who they were.
I'm sure he's smiling on you with much joy.
Hugs to you.
:-) Susan
Such a lovely post about your Dad Tammy. Love the pictures too.
My FIL died in the 80's at a young age and it often makes me sad that he didn't get to know some of my kids and the other kids in the family. If your dad was still alive he'd be about the same age my dad is now.
Beautiful tribute, Tammy. I especially loved how you told that even though he hadn't been perfect there was still good qualities. Just lovely.
Nice tribute to your father. I understand and appreciate your love.
Susan
I'll be back to read this, but wanted you to know that I've tagged you for a little, inspiring meme. Hope you have time!
I am so happy to know that you will see him again someday! What a tremendous story of God's love and grace.
Oh Tammy, that was beautiful & of course made me tear up. I'm glad my friend came by today & she took me to a few places, so was able to get out & have a happy day & not be home & feel sad. The new Farmer's Market only had a few things so we ended up going to Easy Orchards & then Walmart & had a nice time together. I still miss him, but am thankful for the 30 years almost 31 we shared together & like to think too that maybe he knows about your happy life & the munchkins.
I love that pictures of your dad, the first one when he was little...
This was just wondefully written, Tammy, and the photos are nice. I love the one at the end. Isn't it great to know that you will see him again some day? My dad will be gone 11 years this August and I miss him, too.
I didn't realize you were such a popular tag target! Whenever you can get to it --
I actually remember when you did that post about your youngest and remember commenting that it could very definitely be real and last! That was really early in our commenting relationship.
Have a great Sabbath!
Tammy that was a lovely post about your Dad. I enjoyed the pictures and the honest and real comments about his life. We all struggle with something in this life and often fail at least I know I do but through God's grace I continue on. What a joy and a blessing that he returned to the Lord and that you will see him again!!!
Dear Tammy,
What a sweet and tender post about your Dad. I have no doubt in my mind that he is smiling down from above in happiness at the wonderful woman you are today.
xo
This was such a touching tribute to your Dad Tammy. I know you miss him very much. I certainly believe he sees and knows his sweet girls. And some day - you will see him again. It is such a wonderful promise - such a joyous thought. The hope of heaven and eternity with those we love.
"And he is missed." I understand the empty spot that never goes away when you loose a parent. It's been 35 years since my Mom went to be with the Lord and I still miss her as well. What a neat testiment to God's faithfulness in your Father's life and family. Thanks for sharing with us Tammy.
Beautiful tribute, Tammy.
However, my perverse sense of humor got a real kick out of, "my dad was my parent's only child".
Giggle, giggle, snicker...SNORT!
And I thought I was the only hillbilly in this bloggin community!
what a beautiful tribute to your father! Happy birthday to him! I'm sorry he's not physically here to share the day with him, but I'm sure you feel his presence with you!
circle of life...
My dad died when I was 25, and I've mentioned in my blog that I regret the many stories never told.
Very sweet. I love your nostalgic heart!
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