November 22, 2012
Thinking of dad. Remembering our last thanksgiving together - 2011. In my childhood home, we gathered together and thanked dad one by one - Sophie, Tess, Kurt, me, Donnie, Brad, Annie, Margaret, John III and Suzanne. Nana and Granddaddy (my dad) were pleased to have all of us there, save for John IV (Baby John), who stayed in the Chicago area but would join us at Christmas. Thank God that we did indeed celebrate with Baby John and Granddaddy just one month later. It was the last Christmas we would share with dad or Baby John. (It too was a moment I will cherish forever).
As I read to him my words of love and gratitude, dad looked me in the eyes and his love for me seemed to grow - if that were even possible. It was one of his last parting gifts. He listened without speaking (a rarity) and received our kind words. As I spoke to him his eyes filled with compassion and tears. And I felt his total acceptance.
In his eyes, I saw my life in full and I felt the warmth of his love.
In his eyes, I felt accepted.
I am grateful for that memory.
I am so grateful for my father's love - that I knew it throughout my life.
Thank you Heavenly Father for the gift of my daddy's love and acceptance.
