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Friday, August 12, 2011

Appreciating Life


I love the photo above as it’s one of the many taken the last time I saw my father. How ironic that during that time in my life, my father was taking care of me, as I was recovering from major liver surgery. He loved photography; a passion we both have in common and for the first (and only time) I was able to share that with him.

Isn’t it funny how it sometimes takes devastating things to get us to actually see life and the beauty contained within it? How many times do we take our life, as well as those we love, for granted, not giving a second thought that today may be the last time we have the opportunity to give a hug, a peck on the cheek or to simply say – I love you?

I sat on the floor of the hallway at work not long ago this morning, tears streaming, as my father’s doctor informed me that the results from yesterday’s procedure showed his cancer is at the worst stage possible. Because of this, they're encouraging family to call or see him over the next week or so.

The chapter, “Good bye, daddy” is about to close in my book of life, so I’d like to end it with a few words to my dad:

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Dear daddy,

Although life brought much heartache from the very beginning, I’m so thankful that God spared your life long enough to heal things between us. Thank you for all of the wonderful, loving and encouraging words over the last several months; asking me for your forgiveness for the things you had done and wished you had done - telling me how much you love me and how much you are proud of me and the woman I have become.

The BEST memory you could have ever given me was allowing me to pray with you as you gave your heart back to Jesus.

See you in Heaven, daddy.

Love,
Your little girl xo

17 comments:

  1. tears and hugs....

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  2. Beautiful! I hope you let him read it! You brought tears to my eyes as this scene is all to familiar to me. Enjoy your time with your father as best you can and may God and Jesus be with you all!

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  3. Your dad must be so proud of his little girl.

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  4. Wow, that is so beautiful. It's a special thing to be able to share something so personal, and no I don't mean on the internet, I mean with a parent, especially if things had been strained between you before.

    Stay strong, Sophia.

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  5. Lovely Sophia,
    my heart leans towards you with watery eyes. I am so sorry for this hard time in your life, yet how lovely that your father and you have had the time to love, care, apologize and connect. That is such a golden gift. I wish you grace as each moment unfolds. Sending light, now and always.

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  6. Hugs to you Sophia.
    I went through the same several years ago with my Father slowly being taken by cancer. I'm glad you had some time with him before it was too late.

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  7. What a beautiful heart and spirit you have! The gift of forgiveness is an amazing treasure! A peace that will eventually heal your heart! It's through tears I read your goodbye. Your words are to be cherished, your father is so lucky to have such a sweet soul near during his last hours. Wishing you and him a smooth transition...Sending love and prayers your way!

    Big hugs Sherrie

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  8. A deep bow in respect of your strength.

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  9. You're such a fortunate person to have your father in your life. Believe me, I know what I'm saying - not all parents were meant for parenting.

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  10. Sophia,
    My heart breaks for you....what a gift though the last few months have been for you with your dad...and being able to connect with your him - HUGS

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  11. What a poignant and beautiful post. Thinking of you x

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  12. Dear Sophia,
    I am very close to my dad... so i know what exactly it is to live with the fear of losing him. Your post brought tears to my eyes. It is indeed sad that we understand the value of relationship when when its on the verge of ending...
    But have faith Sophia... Every thing would we fine... Your dad is really lucky to have you as his daughter.
    *hugs*
    Thinking of you :(

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  13. You were so fortunate to have a wonderful father like that in your life. Thank you for such a beautiful blog entry. :)Bea
    dogintheholestudio.com

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  14. Hi Sophia..hugs of love and comfort to you..thank for sharing such a deep heartfelt post..beautiful. keeping you in my thoughts!
    Hugs
    Victoria

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  15. Thinking of you during this very difficult time.

    hugs
    xo

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  16. this made me kinda tear up...I don't have much to say, I just wish you get through this strongly and that those good memories stay with you and forever make you happy and proud!
    take care

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