This past Father’s Day week was filled with anticipation of renewal and adventure. With the ongoing planning came lots of prayers and nerves into the unknown.
Let me explain …
As more COVID mandates about wearing masks, social distancing, etc., were lifted, people began to venture out again and travel. It was decided that my husband and I would fly to Florida for a one-week vacation. Finally, I was going to be with my dad and celebrate Father’s Day with him. I connected with my sister, who made all the meeting arrangements.
They said Daddy was in the beginning stages of dementia. My concerns were many … the main one being: will Daddy remember me? Oh, how I prayed that he would!
In Kissimmee, we met at an outdoor market. When I walked up to Daddy, the familiar twinkle in his eyes met me. Those eyes still sparkled! We hugged and kissed. Yes, he remembered me! Later, when we embraced longer, I took his beautiful face all in, and my tears started falling. He hugged me, looked me in the eye, and asked, “Why are you crying?”
I cried because I love him. I cried because God is good and granted me another tender moment with my dad, forever imprinted in my heart. I cried because I missed my daddy. I cried because he is getting older and frail, and I didn’t ever want him to forget me. I cried because we live in another state and I couldn’t always be by his side. I cried because I was grateful. I got to know him after he and my mom separated when I was 3. They divorced by the time I was 6. I cried because I knew he wouldn’t always be around for us to visit. I cried because of the dreaded impending reality of a child one day having to say goodbye to their parent. Forever.
Daddy, if you could see yourself through my eyes, you would know how special you are to me. And I am grateful for our time together.
From Heart to Heritage
Reflections From the Heart 
I’m so glad you got to visit your daddy again, Mary. This is beautiful!
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Thank you for Joyce! God is gracious!
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Undeniably, this was a God appointment!
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I’m so glad you got to visit your dad, Mary. And on Father’s Day! My dad just passed away recently, and it was so sad not being there. A chunk of my heart is gone – but I rejoice in knowing that I will see him again!!
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Thank you so much for your kind words, Signora. Sorry for your recent loss. I, too, rejoice that one day we will see our loved ones who went on to glory before us. That my dear, indeed is our blessed hope!
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So happy you got to be with your Dad. That is a wonderful pic of the two of you.
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Thanks so much Mary! Truly grateful for the time spent.
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Such sweet feelings about your dad. When his memories fade away and the light in his eyes become dim, his last rememberance will be of you, his child, his loving precious daughter.
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Thank you sweet friend.
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What a wonderful photo!
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That was beautiful. We must hold on to and treasure these deep moments.
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Thank you, Mary. So true!
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