I cannot believe how time has flown by. Summer is over and it seems like fall never happened with how chilly it is outside. This time last year the family was preparing for our last Thanksgiving with dad. We had just learned the diagnosis but dad was still doing well and being as funny and positive as ever.
The emotions I expect to go through this holiday season will most likely run the gamut. Happy, sad, excited, tired, hopeful, stressed, fearful, grateful, and sorrowful to name a few. It is typically my favorite time of year. I don’t want to say I’m fearful of how this will all play out but it will most likely be bittersweet.
I am so grateful to having amazing friends and family to celebrate and share life with this season, but at the same time it will be sad since there will be so many reminders of dad. I expect to be singing along to radio Christmas music and then be reminded of dad the moment Elvis’ Blue Christmas comes on because he always sang along mimicking The King. This isn’t a bad memory of course-quite a funny one actually, just one that still makes me cry. Then there is the Entertainment Weekly coming in the mail previewing the movies that will roll out this holiday season. Daddy loved reading up on what Hollywood was going to dazzle or disappoint us all with; and he would see them all no matter how obscure the film was. I’m sure with time I’ll smile instead of cry about all this but the memories will be heavy this year.
We have received notes from others remembering dad this time of year. EIS selections are about this time and he would be reviewing resume after resume for that perfect class. He would consider each candidate fairly and see what unique aspect they could bring to the program. >> Then of course it’s basketball season. There would be a Thanksgiving tournament then the Christmas Classic at St. Pius. Coaching was one of dad’s favorite things and this time of year he was knee deep in practices and games. So many great memories this time of year that are shared by many others.
Dad absolutely loved Thanksgiving. Yes, he loved the turkey, stuffing, pie, and most of the other fixin’s, but more than that he loved the idea of the holiday. Expressing gratitude – whether it be to God; for his family and friends; cooking and sharing a bountiful meal; or just simply being thankful for what he had.
So, what we need to remember is that, there is always something to celebrate and be grateful for. A good meal, roof over our heads, good health, that unexpected gift from a loved one, or simply a hug when you really need it. Surround yourself with people that you love and admire during the holiday season. And remember that we really should be grateful and selfless throughout the year. Dad always put others before himself; an example we all should follow.
-------
And to all those who celebrate Hanukkah I wish you every happiness at Hanukkah and a year filled with many blessings. Happy Hanukkah!