I made this simple video back in 2017 – this video will always hold a lifetime of precious memories …
Daddy is in the beginning stages of forgetfulness — I don’t like the word dementia. His short-term memory may be slipping, but he still recalls events from years ago with striking clarity. Those memories are forever embedded in the recesses of his mind. Daddy has always been a storyteller. Just visit my post, “I No Spic Inglish!” to get a glimpse of his charm.
During a recent visit, it dawned on me that I should record him. That day, he was recounting one of his many tales, this one about his first job. His mind was sharp, his personality vibrant. Whenever he veered off-topic, I gently steered him back. When we finished, I replayed the video for him.
As he watched himself on the computer, he became animated — eyebrows raised, laughing, even tearing up. It was as though he were reliving the story in real time. He pointed at the screen. Then he turned to me and said, “When your daddy is gone, you’ll always have this to remember, eh?”
Back home in Texas, I often play that video. Every time, it brings tears to my eyes. I know the day will come when Daddy’s memory fades even more, and that thought breaks my heart. I often think of Mama and our other elderly relatives. What if we recorded them too — their voices, their laughter, their stories? Maybe it would help them remember.
It’s like hearing a song you haven’t listened to in years when suddenly, you’re right back in that moment.
One thing I’ve learned is that correcting or scolding a loved one who forgets only causes frustration. If Daddy said something offbeat, and we ignored it or gently redirected him, peace would return. It’s a little like guiding a child, with patience and love.
His eyes still twinkle with mischief. The mirth in his thick Puerto Rican accent is magical. This is my daddy: animated, joyful, unforgettable. I will love and cherish him forever.
Fast-forward eight years.
The 2025 government shutdown caused massive airport delays and flight cancellations. My sister said Daddy wanted to see his family one last time. I was overwhelmed — emotionally and mentally — dreading the flight fiasco I’d have to make alone.
Then my dear husband said, “Mary, I’m driving you to Florida to see your dad.” Instantly, relief washed over me.
It’s about a fifteen-hour drive from Houston to Orlando. After stops and breaks, we arrived seventeen hours later that evening. After hugging my sister, brothers, and step-mother, I couldn’t wait to see him!
Now, Daddy mostly keeps his eyes closed. He still responds when spoken to, but he rarely initiates conversation. I said, “Daddy open your eyes. I want to see you seeing me!” For a moment, he opened his eyes and saw me! I cried. Sang to him. And prayed.
Yes, even in this quiet state, I understand. Deep down, I know the man who filled our lives with laughter, stories, and music still lives on within him. And when I look at him, I see not just who he is today, but the decades of love, warmth, and resilience that shaped him.
Daddy, I love you.
Because love — like memory — never truly fades.
What a day that will be
When my Jesus I shall see
When I look upon His face
The one who saved me by His grace
When He takes me by the hand
And leads me through the Promised Land
What a day, glorious day that will be!
From Heart to Heritage
Reflections From the Heart 
What a wonderful post, Mary. Such precious memories and a great way to preserve those memories. I have several short recordings of my mom telling stories from her past. When I need to hear her voice or her laugh, I replay these. They mean so very much to me since she passed away.
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Thank you, Rebecca! I know it’s gonna be difficult when that time comes with my dad! But as you say, it is a precious treasure for a lifetime! I too, played some videos and recorded my mom, and after her passing, it took me a long time to be able to listen let alone look at any of her photos without the pain of having lost her. But now I can look, and my heart does good knowing that, yes, we had put a small in her face and there were some precious, joyful memories! Thank you for visiting, Rebecca I truly appreciate you commenting. Blessings!
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Such beautiful memories to treasure Mary. I wish I had been able to record my parents but they live on in my mind and heart. It’s heartbreaking to watch our parents drifting away from us, both mine passed in my arms, not with “forgetfulness” (other serious illnesses) and sadly did not last as long as your dear dad. 92, strong and is “still with you”, I believe they do still remember, they don’t “forget” they just can’t express themselves as well, but you describe it so beautifully and with such tender love and compassion. Bless you and bless your dear daddy and family 🙏❤️
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No matter what, our parents leave imprints in our hearts and minds. We cherish the good memories. Blessings to you as well my friend.
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“Because you’re crazy.” That made me laugh out loud! I appreciate your term “beginning of forgetfulness.” Thank you for a wonderful post.
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What a beautiful reflection of who your dad is and has been in your life. You love him well, my friend, and your commitment to being present with him is laudable. His heart of love and humor has been passed down to you–it’s so easy to see. Being able to spend time with him is a gift–and you will remember and have no regrets.
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Thank you for your encouraging words, my friend. That truly means a lot. We are so blessed to have him still with us at 92 years old.
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I am so glad you got to go see your Daddy. Thank goodness Mark drove you and y’all didn’t have to deal with flying. I almost cried reading your story. My dad died when I was 23 and my mother at 30. I can’t imagine how hard it is to see your Daddy going through the begining stages of forgetfulness. It is so sad. Take it one day at a time.
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Thank you, Beverly. I am very thankful for my husband. My entire family and church family have been encouraging during this time. It’s true, all we can do is take it one day at a time.
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How precious that you got to spend one more time with your father. I went down this road with my mom. When she eventually had to move to memory care at assisted living, I used to read her journals to her. In fact, that experience encouraged me to read to the elderly as I have been doing at the same assisted living facility for the past 3+ years.
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Hi Pete! What an honorable and thoughtful thing to do! You have given me some ideas …
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This touched my heart deeply. Your dad sounded like such a wonderful man, full of life, laughter, and love. The way you described him brought tears to my eyes, made me think of my own dad 😢. What a blessing to have those recordings and memories to hold on to. His spirit and the love he gave will always live on through you.
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Thank you, Willie. He’s always been great! Very loving and a big kid at heart. I will always cherish these memories. I see you hold special ones for your dad as well …
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Oh Yes… Heartbreaking but Treasurable Memories
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