Grief is such a funny thing. It sneaks up when I'm not expecting it and leaves as suddenly as it came on. Usually it comes on a few days before a birthday or anniversary. That was the case last week for me.
Last Friday my dad would have been 77 years old. His last birthday with us, his 70th, was just a few months before he was diagnosed with brain cancer, which would take him shortly after to meet his heavenly Father. We had no idea he was sick at the time of that birthday. It was totally the Lord that inspired me with the idea of something special for him. Dad never cared for gifts. He wanted to know he had touched someone in a real way. So that birthday in lieu of gifts, we had everyone bring a letter with how Dad made a difference in their life. What took place that evening was priceless. It was everything you would say about someone at a funeral, but he was with us to hear it.
We can look back on so many things related to my Dad's illness and death and see the Lord's hand throughout. He's so sweet and gentle in the way He teaches me how to turn to Him in my time of grief. That is something I didn't know how to do before.
My sister posted her letter a few months back. You can see that here.
Here is the letter I wrote to him.
Dad,
Trying to write this letter has been difficult for me. There are no words to describe all you have been to me. What can I say to the man who has been there from the beginning? You have been the man who has held my hand through every significant event in my life up to this point-watched every sports event I ever played and always made me reach beyond what I thought I was capable of; the one who showed me how a man should and shouldn't treat me; the one who I will always measure every other man by; and most importantly, the man who not only told me about the importance of a relationship with God, but lived out Christ's example right in front of me.
What can I say to the man who taught me about God's love, not by preaching about it, but by offering unconditional love to me? And what can I say to the one who taught me to love the Lord with all my heart, mind, soul and strength?
When I try to describe you to people who don't know you, three words sum you up- wise, humble and courageous. These characteristics are a rare combination, but that's you Daddy.
So what can I say to the most honorable man I know? I'll just say I love you and know that's all you want to hear.
I look forward to many more years and I can't wait for the day when my children get to meet their Papa.
Happy 70th, Dad!
Much Love, Liz
5 comments:
Awesome post, Liz. I am so glad I was able to be with you on your Dad's birthday:)
I am still overwhelmed that I am walking the same path. It is just unbelievable. Thank you for the guidance and support you have given me thus far as I travel this road. I am so thankful that I will have you by my side through the highs and lows!! I am also thankful that I had the priviledge and honor to have a relationship with your dad. He was an amazing guy.
I love you :)
Cried reading this post and cried some more when I read Gina's comment. Your Dad was a wonderful man.
It has been so encouraging to see how God has helped both you and Angie to rely more on him through your grief. I know that would mean more to your dad than anything. Love you so much!
Liz, i am so honored that I was able to know and love your dad. I had the upmost respect for him. I cannot beleive that it has been 7 years. Wow how time passes. Your children will know what a great man he was through your stories and how he raised you to be the woman you are today!
Wow, Liz. That is amazing. Thanks for that post! And what an awesome experience for your dad. My dad would love letters instead of gifts. Thanks for sharing this!!
Baby Girl -
You made me cry today. What an awesome honor to your precious Dad. He loved you very much. You were always his baby girl. Thanks for sharing a little bit of him with everyone.
Post a Comment