My Tribute

Dear Mom & Dad,

The week of February 27-March 6, 2009 is a special week in my life because it is the birthday week for both of you: Mom, your birthday is February 27 and Dad, your birthday is March 6. Every year at this time I recall fond family memories. How you lived your lives, how you took care of us and how others saw you in our small community.

Thank you for loving me, for doing all you could for the family and for our community. Thank you for sharing your understanding of God with us; for praying for us; and for denying yourselves for us.

I remember your tears–tears, when we did wrong; tears when we did not agree with the house rules and tears when it was “our time” to leave the family nest.

I remember your smiles and your laughter when we were able to recite those bible verses and lines for the Christmas play or to read that long scripture without a stutter. I remember the pleasure you displayed when we learned to swim like fish and fight that fight like “Cassius Clay.” Even though this may be disputed, I remember your support even in the midst of our failures.

I know you are in HEAVEN now. I know this because I saw you both through my angel’s eyes. I saw you dad flirting with mom on the day she left us. I noticed your strong shoulders in your uniform: so young, so happy, and so vibrant. And mom I hardly recognized you—so young, so sexy and gorgeous. You were in your prime, walking together hand in hand by a small pond in a beautiful park.

Dad, I heard you ask Mom, “What took you so long.” Yes, it did seem like a long time between your leaving in 1986 and Mom joining you 1998.

You are together now in HEAVEN, enjoying each other’s company in the presence of the Glory of God. Always the good parents, you continue to pray for your children. I feel your prayers, as we endure life’s trials. I want to thank you for your prayers and wish you Happy Birthday Mom and Dad. Love endures, keep smiling, keep praying and in God’s time, we will all be together again.

Your son,

Tony