Friday, October 26, 2012
My parents met and married in Oregon. They were living in Lynnwood, WA when I was born but soon moved back to Oregon. They had three more after me. I was probably seven years old when my parents separated and about nine when my mother moved the family to Arizona. I believe I saw my father once after that when he came down to Arizona. The family really didn't stay in touch for many personal reasons, so I lost contact with my father for many years. Early this year, I was told that my dad was trying to make contact with me again. I had many mixed feelings, but chose to obey the commandment to honor my father. Thank goodness I did because these past months have been precious. I discovered a lovely sweet man with a great twinkle in his eye. He had a good sense of humor and a lot of wisdom. He was very mentally sharp. I got to share these past months with him, mostly over the phone because we lived several states apart. We did get a three-day visit in late March, which was wonderful. My dad was being treated for kidney cancer and suffered much on chemo, but he was determined to fight. Last week, I got the phone call that my dad was released from treatment by his oncologist. I could tell that the news took the wind out of his sails. Thank goodness I had the time because I drove over right away to see him. We still didn't get much time, because he slipped into a coma Friday afternoon and never recovered. But I was there with Patricia at the hospital and spent some long hours with her and with my dad in the bed next to us. I am sure he heard everything we said and watched us enjoy our time together. Dad, I love you and regret that I didn't have more time with you. But, I know you are now a young man in heaven with no more worries, aches or pains. I will see you soon. Love, Janis
