Changes - New Year

Dear Dad,

There are a lot of changes taking place.  Yesterday, you were moved back to the skilled nursing facility, your hospital stay accomplished all it was meant to do.

So here we are, almost back where we started.

The families are all here, some will be here through the weekend, others are leaving town, you need the rest, this is good.

When my brother arrived this morning, you were eating in the dining hall, it appears the caffeine (coffee) and the sugar (orange juice) gave your a perk and you did okay for awhile. The slight "rush" ended and you were tired and started to rest again.

Not much to write about today.

A few changes, earlier this morning, about 2 am, when I was still awake, I realized the important things for now.

You know, we have been with you for 50 years (not me, but my older brother), and we know that we have had the privilege of having you with us for all these years.  It occurred to me that we need to recognize this time as a change in our family, not a loss, as we are stepping up to the plate you are vacating as you are "promoted" to your new position in this life.

I believe there are people that know you and love you, that need to be touched with the kindness and generosity you stood for.  We, your sons, have made the choice to continue this and for our lives to be your legacy.

I was reading some scriptures last night, it seems I do not do enough of this, but at times like this, even the heathen are comforted by God's word.  I read Psalm 136, and noticed a recurring theme, "his mercy endures forever."

Wow...

I finally understand you...as I realize mercy is undeserved kindness at a time of need, and to endure means effort is involved,  Forever is eternal.

You have chosen to be kind to those in need, even when it requires extreme effort, with no timetable.

I know your choices have cost you, but the rewards I see are incredible.  The people that have stepped up to say how much you mean is unbelievable.  The mercy of God endures forever, and you have been a vessel to share His mercy to so many.

This is what is is all about, what you are all about.  This is how you could endure, because His mercy endured through you. Your kindness and generosity go outside of the family, to others in need, many times in desperate situations...isn't this what being a Christian...being an American...being a Man is all about?

We will not let your legacy die.

His mercy will endure forever.

Thanks Dad, it took along time, but I finally get it.