This past year has been rough. Last year at this time my dad
was recovering from surgery from 4th stage cancer. He’s had a rough
battle. He suffered, but he is getting stronger. January 2nd of this
year my Uncle Ted passed away—a victim of cancer. I have a good friend from
college whose dad passed away earlier this year. When I was in college we’d
spend the weekend over at his house and his parents treated me like I was their
own son. I also have memories of my Grandpa. Years ago he was diagnosed with
terminal cancer the day after Thanksgiving and passed away on January 2nd.
As I consider all this, I have many things to be thankful
for. My dad is still alive. I see him fighting back. His struggle has given me
a new vigor for life. I’m less intimidated by things. On occasion I perform
standup comedy. I’m less worried about failure. A bad night on stage doesn’t
seem so bad. I sent in a tryout video for America’s Got Talent. Will they call?
It doesn’t really matter. If they do, I’ll take the stage. I’ve been writing
more and pursuing the dream of one day being self-employed—writing, speaking
and being creative.
I have had some sad moments thinking of my Uncle Ted.
However, I realized one important thing. I don’t have a single bad memory of
Uncle Ted—not one! He was a gentle man that showed love to all and brought joy
to those around him. I was blessed to know him. My life is better because of
his life.
As I think of my friend’s father, I have similar thoughts.
He showed me love—true, Christian love. He was kind and intelligent. Perhaps
with those I’ve lost, I can take the best parts of them and carry those things
forward.
With my Grandpa, I have some great stories. He liked to
drink and I can look back and laugh at his antic. The last few months of his
life I had a special relationship with him. He called me, “My pastor”. I was
comfort to a dying man. I also saw Grandpa put down the bottle as his best
friend and grab hold of Jesus. I saw there was a kindness and compassion that
alcohol had hidden. Those last few months there was an intimate bond that few
share with another person.
I can look at those around me and see blessings. My mom has
been a great strength to dad. I admire her character and steadfastness. I’ll
have a chance to spend time with mom and dad over Thanksgiving. The antics of
their two cats are also a blessing. Gizmo and Bootsy are true characters. I
also have my brother. He’s one of the most hardworking and compassionate people
I know. He’s also wired differently than anyone else I know, so he has an
offbeat, ornery sense of humor that I love. Truly I have much to be thankful
for this holiday season.
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