Both my parents passed away in the comfort of their own homes, no tubes, machines or prolonged suffering. So many people kissed their loved ones good-bye this morning expecting to see them in the evening and unfortunately, they will not return. I had time to say all that I wanted before either of my parents passed. For that reason, I say that my worst day was a blessing.
Two Last wishes....
Thanksgiving
My father came to Florida last Thanksgiving and spent time with family and friends. He asked to spend a night at my house and my sister Marie's house. See, my father just wanted to know that we made a home and we would be just fine when he went home to rest in the arms of the Lord. We talked about many things...he was lucid, alert and sharp at age 92. He told me about the University of Wisconsin and his experiences in college. White people in town would treat him differently from the other black students, because he was from the caribbean. As I said, he just wanted to spend that night in our house and put his mind and heart at peace. That weekend was also the first and only time that he ever attended church with his three children.
Wheelchair
My father couldn't walk very far. Whenever he walked or talked, his breath was very short and he became light-headed. Both my sisters were traveling to Jamaica in a week and the only thing he ever wanted was a wheelchair. Why a wheelchair? As a result of his condition, we was unable to attend church and the chair would allow him to go to church. Two Sundays ago, he attended church with my sisters and had communion.
I prayed while my mother was sick and also for my father. I prayed that the Lord would take them home without suffering, when He was ready for them. In both cases, my prayers were answered.
My father lived a long life. 92 years...10/10/10 would have been his 93 birthday. His father died at age 94. As life would have it, 10/10/10 is also the due date of my twin boys. Two weeks ago I spoke to him about the wheelchair that he wanted. Whenever we spoke, I always reminded him that his grandchildren would be here in October. The day I told him Tanya was pregnant, he was beaming and filled with life. He even had a hearty appetite that day. See, my father was at peace, because his children were in good hands. His children attending church. The seeds that he planted were blooming, and he was proud. Every time I mentioned seeing his grandchildren, he would just laugh. My father knew all along that he would never see his grandchildren. My father also never told us no, he would just laugh. That's his way of avoiding a response or having to say no.
I don't cry because my father is in heaven, I cry because I'll never see him alive again. My mother and father are in God's hands, and for that I'm blessed. I can't tell you how at peace I am. I can't tell you how thankful I am to my parents for all that they have instilled in me. I can't tell you how thankful I am that God answers prayers. I can't tell you how thankful I am for every person that God has placed in my path.
Before my mother passed away, God placed my wife in my life.
Before my father passed away, God blessed us with twin boys.
God has been so good to me and blessed me in so many ways. I only hope that I'm able to help others during my brief time here on earth.
To all my family and friends...I love you all and I'm fine. My only wish is that you build your faith. Keep the fire burning and let no one stand between you and your destiny.
No comments:
Post a Comment