My Grandpa Thompson passed away on April 1, 2005 - April Fool's Day - which is seemingly strange because everyone is so focused on happy-go-lucky fun on this day. I've never been a big celebrator of this holiday, but especially not now, as I usually end up thinking about him all day.He had been sick for a long time with a variety of illnesses and finally after much suffering, he was relieved of the pain. Although it was terribly sad (and life hasn't been the same since), as it is so often said - it was a blessing because he was so uncomfortable.
The photo above was from my wedding day.....looking very Dapper Dan, sporting the charcoal suit and escorting a foxy lady. Although the cane was certainly for balance, I think it made him look distinguished - and gave him a great stick to "tap" others with if necessary. :)
I have thought of him especially in the past two years through the crumbling and eventual divorce. There were many times when I would stare at the photo I have of him on my refrigerator and think, "If you were here, what would you say?". He would inevitably call me 'Miss Sarah' and I am certain he would calmly dispense his advice with love and genuine concern for my happiness and well-being.
He was a man who believed in and trusted God very much. He wanted me to be particularly focused on my education and was very disappointed he missed my college graduation, but was too sick to attend. He asked me to visit their house in my cap and gown as soon as the ceremony was over to show him and walk around with it on - and made me promise I wouldn't stop with a bachelor's degree alone, so I was especially proud to walk for my MBA graduation, although he had already passed away by that time.
In some ways it seems so surreal that it has been 5 years - and yet in other ways it seems as though it has been much longer. What a tremendous man. I am so grateful to be part of his posterity and hope I can be like him in as many ways as possible.
What a great, emotional post. He seemed like a wonderful man...someone who the world surely misses each and every day. I'm sorry for your loss, but try to focus on all the great times ya'll had together. =)
ReplyDeleteIt is obvious that you think very highly of your Grandpa, and love him dearly. I lost my Grandpa a year and a half ago, and I am surprised at times I still find myself emotional as I miss him. Grief is a strange thing. Your Grandpa sounds amazing. After knowing you I would expect anyone from who you are posterity to be amazing.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for a post about Grandpa. I also spent the day thinking about him and what a great person he was. I miss him too. I wish my kids could have gotten to know him better. Eliza remembers him, but even Hunter was too little. Hope all is going well. Let's catch up soon. Love you lots.
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