On the Death of my Father

Little did I know that two days after writing my last post and quote, I would be faced with the death of my father. In fact, while I was writing that, he was at home very sick, perhaps even considering the fact that he may have only a short time left. I knew he was not well for a long time since his heart was very weak, but his death was still unexpected. My family and I were with him for many hours on Tuesday, his last full day of life. He didn't say a whole lot to us, as he was very nauseated and just trying to rest. I know he knew that we cared about him.

We (my brothers and sisters), said our good-nights, and said we'd see him the next day. Later in the evening I went back again just to see how he was doing and to say good- night. I was glad to see he was propped up in his bed, watching a basketball game, one of his favorite things to do. He asked if he could get some sleeping pills to help him to sleep, and I told him I'd ask the nurse.

The next morning, I went up to see him, just to see if he was able to sleep at all during the night. I asked if he got the drugs, and he said "no". I kidded him saying "you don't come to the hospital to get sleep". He laughed. He said he was feeling ok though. I had to go to work, so I told him I'd be there afterwards. He said "bye" and I said "see ya in a little while". Before I was able to see him again, he had passed away only about 10 minutes after I left work.

My family and I remained in his room with him for a few hours, letting the reality sink in. He didn't have a lot of earthly things to leave behind, but he did have many friends and family that cared for him. He had 7 children, of which I am so glad to say I am one of. Coming through this, after spending many hours together in the last few days, I can honestly say, I have an awesome family. I appreciate each of them, and... it's a hard thing to say sometimes, ...I love each one. Karen... Diane...Tom....Lori...Kelly...Steve....Mom.... I love each one of you. I hope you all know it
already. Mom, you have bragging rights right along with Dad, and more so. You've been there with us our whole lives, never giving up on us, through our good times and our bad. So, thanks Dad.... and thank you, Mom.

So, as my previous quote was: Live each day as if it's your last, 'cuz one day you'll be right. My newest quote (by me, and I'm sure there's a more eloquent way of saying this but I don't know what it is right now) is: "Treat each other as if it's their last, 'cuz one day you'll be right". No regrets left behind.