Reflection about my earthly father

15 years ago, I was in Myrtle Beach, SC for the first full day of a week long vacation at a beautiful ocean front hotel.  We got a good deal.  I arose early to watch the sunrise create sparkling crystals among the surface of the Atlantic Ocean.  Bible in hand and a cup of coffee in the other, I watched a few stragglers walking along the shore collecting a treasure trove of shells.  I listened to the sea gulls call each other softly in search of food.  I watched a pair of pelicans with their wings spread float peacefully and effortlessly just above the gentle rolling waves.  The soothing sounds of the soft crashing waves made me forget my problems, my cares, and my worries.  That morning, it was just me and God on that 10 floor balcony that overlooked the white sandy beaches.  I was at peace.  That scene was a far cry from the scene that occurred later that afternoon.  Returning from lunch and a fun-filled round of miniature golf, I was planning on a relaxing afternoon swim in the hotels large indoor pool.  Immediately, upon entering the room.  The phone rang.  It startled me.  Once I answered, it did more than startle me, it shook me.  It took my breath away.  It turned my world upside down.  My father was gone.  Just 4 days from his 50th birthday, he had been taken from us by a massive heart attack.  I fell to my knees and curled myself into a fetal position and cried.  I screamed, "WHY!? WHY!? WHY!? WHY!?"

He was my friend.  He was my mentor.  He was my adviser.  I was so glad that I could call him dad.  The last time I saw him alive was two days before his death.  I remember his words vividly.  As he hugged me closely to him, he kissed my cheeks, and said "I love you and proud of you".  He said it for no reason except to say what he has always said to his two boys and he showed that he loved us and was proud of us.  He wasn't embarrassed.  We were in a restaurant.  He took whatever chance he had to tell us that.  Little did I know that would be the last time I hear from him.  Looking at where I am now, I believe he would say the same to me and my brother who is working hard to get re-elected to the Charleston County Board of Education in Charleston, SC. 

Here I am 15 years later.  It still isn't any easier.  I still miss him.  I still wish I could just talk to him.  Seek advice.  Go fishing with him.  Hug him one last time.  He is in Heaven though.  I take solace that I will see him again.  I know I will.  He was a Christian and it was evidenced in how he lived his life.  Other people have told me the same thing.

I love you dad.  I miss you and I am proud of you.