Epilogue
by Jack GrantWhile searching through my father’s closet for the right shirt and suit for his burial, I realized yet again how lucky I have been that my Dad let me get to know him as a man in addition to being my father.
Going through another man’s closet reveals a lot about his small habits and idiosyncrasies, and today instead of being filled with sadness and regret during my search, I was happy to learn more about my father as I shuffled the clothing around and chose the right tie and belt for him.
I had no unresolved issues with my Dad, and I have no regrets, other than we did not have the time to spend together as father and son in the retirement that for him never came.
I will write a fitting memorial to him soon, when I’m not completely occupied with the details that modern life imposes even upon death, but until then, music from my favorite artist will serve to convey my loss:
Father, Son by Peter Gabriel
This is an MP3 file that should open your default player. Please don’t save the file, but instead buy the album
Trackback URL (right-click and choose the copy shortcut/link option)
I’m so terribly sorry for your loss. Bless you and your family.
By Suzanne on 12.27.05 00:34
Oh, Jack, I am so very sorry for your loss.
God be with you and give you strength.
By Chrissy on 12.27.05 00:52
That right there says a lot, Jack. Would that many of we sons out here in America could say the same.
You’re a strong guy, writing this way so soon after the fact. If there’s one thing I’m certain of, it’s that I won’t be when my Daddy’s time comes.
Respect.
- Donnie
By Donnie on 12.27.05 02:28
I am so sorry for your loss. Take time for yourself, and remember all the good times.
By Helen on 12.27.05 02:34
My condolences.
How blessed you are, to have had a father whom you liked and respected as a man. That’s one of the greatest gifts life can give, and I hope it will continue to illuminate even though he’s gone.
By CaseyL on 12.27.05 03:04
Oh Jack I’m so sorry. My heartfelt sympathy to you and your family.
By Myrtus on 12.27.05 03:36
I’m so sorry for your loss. The love that you have for your father has been shown to all of us in your posts for him. Thank you Jack, for sharing this special love you have. I know he will always be in your heart, and now he will be in ours.
God bless.
By Moogie on 12.27.05 13:08
My condolences on the loss of your dad. Your relationship was one that many would envy, and such that you have no remorse over things unsaid or never done. Quite a feat.
By Cheryl on 12.27.05 22:44
God’s hand was on you, guiding you to those items which would awaken small joys of remembrance and discovery. And his greatest memorial, however well you write his eulogy, will remain within you.
God bless and keep you safe, Jack…
By BillT on 12.28.05 00:45
Jack,
My heart goes out to you. Time will slowly heal the pain, and replace it with the warmth of the loving memories.
This was my first Christmas without my mother: I had to sign the papers to disconnect her from the machines last July - The worst moment in my 50 years on earth, yet is what she wanted.
As you go through this next year, do not dwell on your loss, celebrate his life and be a living memorial to him with your actions and words.
Weep not for the coocoon, for the butterfly has flown.
God Bless.
Kevin
By Kevin on 12.28.05 12:49
Around The Blogosphere #31 (Open Trackback)
The “Appreciate Your Family” edition in the continuing saga of interesting and thought provoking news from around the web. There’s sure to be something you’ve missed around the Blogosphere. (All links open in a new window for faster cruising) Jack…
By Diggers Realm on 12.28.05 13:37
My condolences to the family.
I had the honor of living in the shadow of my grandfather (who walked on water and parted the seas when he needed to rest for a moment) for over 30 years. He was the father figure in my life and if I live to be one half the man he was, I will be happy.
He taught me everything that I needed to know in life and impressed on my the importance of God, Family, and country.
When my grandmother passed, I had the honor of standing next to my grandfather and when my grandfather passed, I took the responsibility of watching the great grandchildren (ages 5,4,3,2,2, and 1) as so that his memorial would be a solumn affair. I also didn’t want to be seen crying like a baby, because I am his first male heir (he had 4 daughters) in the family and I had to be the pillar of stregnth for the family.
(At least this was my excuse for not going. I knew I would deplete the supply of tissues in 3 states if I showed and I really couldn’t deal with the grief at the time.)
And now the flag at the Castle’s Northern OP is at half mast for those who have passed on before us.
By Jon The Castle Mechanic on 12.28.05 17:25
Yol Bolsun
Yol Bolsun
May there be a road.
The Blogosphere has been described as a type of family on many occasions. Many of them extremely close. Some, like myself, being more the black sheep, or a distant cousin oft heard of but rarely seen.
But when w…
By Techography on 12.28.05 19:15
Our sympathy Jack. We’ve been there and we know the road you must travel. No words can make it easier for you but our thoughts are with you.
By Punctilious on 12.29.05 05:50
Prayers and blessings to you and yours, Jack…
By Sgt. B. on 12.30.05 00:05
Honoring A Departed Father
If you’ve been following the sad saga of our talented co-blogger Jack Grant’s holiday loss it’s time for an update.
First, re-read our post here about the bittersweet Chr…
By The Moderate Voice on 01.01.06 18:21