It's hard to believe that a year has gone by since I last saw my Dad. It was Sunday morning, October 26th, 2008 and I was leaving Seattle after spending my last week with him. As we both awoke that morning, he was in good spirits and talkative. I had no idea that he would die in three days time; who would have, as he appeared much as he always did,with his strong voice and his sweet way. After chatting for some time about the book he was reading, he offered me some fatherly wisdom in sort of a round about way. Looking back after he died, I realized that he was trying to give a bit of advice and encouragement, much like a coach would give to his prized pupil who was setting off on his own journey. It was his way of looking forward, as he probably could not bear to say goodbye forever. There were things that I wish I had told him, and I was sure at the time that he was not near death-he was strong, and I thought months away from passing. Now as I look back I see that he lived a long and full life that spanned nine decades. That is a long journey, though just a blink in God's eye. He was blessed in many ways, and in his heart I know he was grateful for all of his friends and family. He was such a social creature, really quite interested in other people and their stories. He always talked about his friends and family to others, as if he was so proud of them. This always struck me as such an altruistic quality-a man who believed in the goodness and love of his fellow man.
I too am grateful-grateful for the loving father that I had, and all the good memories we shared. Now he remains a peace of my heart forever.
I'll be sure to raise a toast in his honor this week, on October 29th, in memory of his last moments with us. I hope you all will join me, as you remember Charley in your own special way.
