Tuesday, February 14, 2012

My Valentine

It’s Valentine’s Day.  I’ve been seeing many posts on Facebook that mark today as the anniversary of either a marriage proposal or the birth of a child.  These exciting events bring a smile to my face and warm my heart. 

But for me, today is carrying a very different atmosphere.  This year, Valentine’s Day isn’t full of flowers and candy.  And, although I am VERY much in love with my amazing husband, my heart is overwhelmed by another man.  This man is full of compassion and integrity…a man of his word.  Right now, I’m sitting in my parents’ bedroom with my 3 sisters and my mom watching my dad slowly pass away.  (Technically, he’s my step-dad…just to avoid confusion) He has always been such a strong man, the healthiest of them all.  He taught me how to drive a car and how to balance a checkbook.  He has loved me from the moment he met me and has always done very well in expressing that love.  My kids will remember him as ‘grandpa’ with many memories of him tossing them around in the pool.  My husband will remember his strong handshakes and encouraging words throughout some of our more difficult decision-making times.  I will remember him as my personal ‘hero’ when reflecting on the day he married my mother.  He saved me from my past while speaking truth and strength into my future. 
I refuse to remember Valentine’s Day as the day my dad died.  We’re not sure he will die today anyway.  But, if he does, I will choose to remember it as the day my wonderful dad handed down a legacy of love and honor.  This day will always remind me of how much I am loved on this earth by a man named Tom Thompson who left his fingerprint on my family tree as far as it will stretch.

No comments:

Post a Comment