Dear Jenny

Dear Jenny,

You had a dream the other night that your father had died.  You were very sad. 

I am writing to you now to remind you of a few things that you must know.  First of all, everything dies.  Dogs, cats and fathers.  One day, I will die.  It is what we humans do.  I have had 54 years to think about this and I am not afraid.

I have spent a great deal of time considering the relationship between myself and our Father.  I have seen the beauty of his creation and I have tasted many of the joys of this life.  I had a close call six years ago with the whole sarcoidosis scare.  I an not a stranger to the concept of eternity.

So, when the time comes, I want you to stand there at the side of my bed and hold my hand.  Talk to me.  I can hear you even when I no longer respond.  My spirit will have moved past the abilities of my broken body.  Kiss me on the forehead and know that I am in good hands.  Never fear or worry for me.  Then leave the death bed and go live your life.  Live.  Love.  Dance.  Enjoy your successes and don't kick yourself so hard over your failures.  Learn to understand yourself, your moods and your thoughts. 

Read what I have written.  Consider my journey, as it will help you.  Also, read the journey and the story of other men and women of history.  They have all passed where you too one day will be going.

Provide for your children better than you have been provided for.  More love, less worry.  More grace and more grace.  Teach them to work for what they have.  Nothing in this life is free.

Smile!  Laugh!  Toast it up.  Here's to the gift of life.  Thank you our Father.  All is well.
Love, Dad

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.