He died on January 2nd. 4 years ago, my Grandpa “Pappy” has been filling my thoughts. Caleb and I had just come back from visiting our family in Pittsburgh when we got the call and flew right back for his funeral. I’m so glad we got that last Christmas with Pappy. Christmas & January which used to only hold a great joy in my heart, now also carry a sadness as well ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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As Caleb and I were watching Once Upon A Time last night, there was a quote that said, “the best way to honor the dead is to tell their story.” So I feel compelled to tell you a little bit about a small man who made a big impact in my world, and the lives of so many others ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Standing not any more than 5 foot tall, he never took up much space in a room, but he always filled the room with laughter and love. He knew how to make anyone feel welcome and could break the ice with any stranger: because like me, he saw strangers as friends he hadn’t met yet. At the forefront of his mind all the time must have been “how can I give to others.” Because he made giving look as easy as breathing. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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He took me volunteering, something he did for so many years. Meals on wheels, helping feed the hungry, helping sick Veterans in the hospital. He put a smile on everyone’s face and was such a bright light in this world. He wrote a letter a week to me for 10 years. How I’ve missed getting his letters the last 4 years. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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To me my Pappy was like a second dad. A best friend. He made me feel special, unconditionally loved. He believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself. He kept it real, but was also my biggest cheerleader. He taught me the value of sharing your words and thoughts with others. He loved nature, plants and seeing the beauty in creation. I picture him in a garden with Jesus today, and know I will see him again someday. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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So in honor of my Pappy, maybe you could write someone today letting them know how special they are, give a gift to someone to make them smile, or look at plants and flowers a little longer, admiring how special God has made things. Who do you want to write a note to today? Love hearing from you.
