....to my husband. Since the passing of my Dad my Mom has told me on numerous occasions not to take my husband for granted. I know for a fact that my Mom never took my Dad for granted but I think she's been reflecting on those times in a marriage when you disagree about something that really isn't that important. This past month I've been paying close attention to how much I rely on Damien in my life and how much of a team we are. It's the little things... watching me while on my bike then making adjustments so my position is better, noticing when my patience is starting to run out and taking control of the kids, or listening to me complain about something then quietly fixing it! Things that I probably have taken for granted!
This past year has been hard for Damien too. He really loved my Dad but his grief has had to be put aside while he's played the supporting role for me. I remember the last week we had my Dad home I relied on Damien to be there for the kids while I spent any moment I could with my Dad. On one occasion Damien had left work early to quickly spend time with my Dad before I needed him home for the kids. I'm so happy that he took that opportunity because that was the last time he really spoke to him. That's when my Dad famously said to him "Damien - there is only one thing wrong with me. When they can fix this one thing I'll be fine". Again - I miss his eternal optimism.
My Dad never missed an opportunity to tell our family how much he loved us. But during that last week he said things to all of us with a different intensity. Like he was trying to burn these words in our hearts to have forever. Like when he looked at me and Sherra and told us how much he loved his son-in-laws and how proud he was of our families. I think in life even as we get older we always strive for our parents approval. I'm so thankful to have had the time with my Dad for moments like that.
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| Damien and Dad! |
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| Dad with Pat and Damien |
