So Long for Now

Dear Dad,

I wasn’t really expecting to write you this kind of a letter so soon, but here we are anyway.

It’s hard to know where to start, but “thank you” seems most appropriate. Thank you for your love and support through the great times and the difficult ones. Thank you for loving the high-pitched, stubborn, fiery, mini version of me… and the teenage, even more stubborn version of me… and loving me and supporting me as a wife and a mom and a Nana.

I always, always knew that you were praying for me, and I treasured those prayers more than you could ever know! I always knew that I could come to you for advice, and you would be slow to speak, but when you did, you would pour into me your Godly, hard-earned wisdom.

You were an amazing teacher! I grew up under your instruction at home and in the church, and it wasn’t until I became an adult that I truly understood how you chose to lead with love and grace and compassion, even though you didn’t always receive it in return. I learned how to believe the best about others and to love and forgive through the most painful relationships. I learned the immense power of gentleness and kindness.

I observed your life as a living example of a servant of the Most-High King. You never made things about yourself, but served those around you with patience and generosity.

It’s crazy hard to summarize a life, but I don’t really have to. I have cherished our conversations and discussions throughout the years and don’t have the regret of leaving things unsaid.

You were my first love, and I remember being shocked when you told me as a little girl that I couldn’t marry you. But it all turned out very well for me. Because of your example, I chose a husband with a heart like yours, and I am so blessed by that. So thank you!

I do have one complaint, though. Several years ago, you told us that you wanted the song “How Great Thou Art” sung at your funeral, and since that time I’ve never been able to sing that song without crying. I’ve had it on repeat since you went Home, though, and it has brought me comfort. It really was the cry of your heart. And now, you get to tell Him face-to-face!

I can only imagine what you are experiencing now! To say I’m a little bit jealous is an understatement!

Thank you, Dad, for a life well-lived. I know it wasn’t an easy life, but you represented your Savior and King so well!

Led by your example, I will finish my race before me with strength and courage, looking forward to the day that we meet again.

So, I’m not going to say goodbye, just so long for now, Dad.

Love,
Joy