Sheltering Tree
“If there is any immortality to be had among us human beings, it is certainly only in the love that we leave behind. Fathers like mine don’t ever die.” – Leo Buscaglia
A Blessing for a Father
by John O’Donohue
“The longer we live
The more your presence
We find, laid down
Within our lives.
The quiet constancy of your gentleness
Drew no attention to itself,
Yet filled our home
With a climate of kindness
Where each mind felt free
To seek its own direction.
As the fields of distance
Opened inside childhood,
Your presence was a sheltering tree
Where our fledgling hearts could rest.”
Nine years ago today my Dad passed away.
There’s not one day that has gone by since I don’t miss our daily calls.
If we allow, time gives perspective, demands reflection, deepens gratitude.
He taught us with actions more than words. Consistency and fidelity.
Fundamental principles, foundations, truths that don’t shift with the wind, the times.
Be kind, humble, work hard, play too, say I love you daily, character matters, quiet strength, faith, family, friendships, forgive, let it go-most of it, gratitude, steadfastness, generosity, resilience, laughter, ask good questions and listen, check your facts, the ends do not justify the means, keep going, eyes on the road ahead, defensive driving, always fill the gas tank when it’s half empty, keep your promises, girls can do anything and are not second class, do your best and let the outcomes be what they will, let it roll off your back like water off a duck, finish well… so much more woven into a lifetime of being a good Dad and best friend.
If your Mom and Dad are still here with you, call, spend time with them.
Things change in a flash from before to after.
Yet love rooted remains.
Love well today.
“Grief never ends … But it changes. It’s a passage, not a place to stay. Grief is not a sign of weakness, nor a lack of faith. It is the price of love” —Author Unknown
