Taraz, as you rightly say at a time like this the right words are incredibly difficult to get a hold of but the ones you chose, were used incredibly. As a testament to the man you called Dad, they paint a wonderful picture he would have been proud to hear I'm sure. You used a phrase that struck me when I read a piece Galen wrote a few days ago.
My father had a good life in many ways and passed away as a good man - someone other men would be lucky to be.
That observation occurred to me too, how utterly wonderful to be spoken about sincerely in such a way by ones own children, I hope I ever earn that honour. I am sure your Dad would never have claimed perfection, that does not sound like his character at all, I am certain you would never claim it on his behalf either, but the picture you paint is of a Father I would very much like to have had myself and I would certainly love to be.
In many ways we his children represent his art, an eclectic range of styles and skills that cross over mediums and paint outside the edges.
As an analogy that is a beautiful and empowering one. I am sure he considered you his greatest creations too, a true representation to the world of his greatest message. Your Dad sounds in many ways like he was forged in adversity, I often believe that is a hard but rewarding teacher and the single greatest way to form amazing qualities yet still be tempered with humility.
This solid, artist and man, may appear to have left but I am sure he has not, he is visible to anyone who should choose to see it in the words, deeds and qualities of those he raised and will be forevermore. This in addition to the influence of your Mum who I am certain will also be incredibly close in your thoughts right now has seemingly raised incredible adults with a range of quality, compassion and integrity that will enrich the future and would be a source of immense pride to them both.
Thinking of you and yours throughout this difficult period. Much love and the very best wishes to you all.
Sorry I was not able to share these thoughts more succinctly, I did try. Please don't worry about replying my friend.
Me too. He had flaws like we all do, but he worked hard in other areas so that they weren't an issue. I can't remember someone who disliked my father, there was something attractive about his sincerity that disarmed people.
Thank you, the time people have spent to add their thoughts is meaningful. No matter what my state might be, engagement matters. :)
Yes. I've always believed that integrity and sincerity are qualities that are indeed incredibly attractive. I detest the mantra that nice guys finish last, I understand the logic but often people see what they expect to see.
The word community encapsulates so many different things and is difficult to quantify or even explain to someone who doesn't get it. I think those fully immersed in the idea, experience a 'one of our own' kind of empathy when they read about people experiencing a tough time.
It's heartening you are the kind of person to see and more importantly feel the meaning that is being conveyed. I hope that many opportunities to smile still present themselves going forward my friend.
In my experience, nice guys only finish last in some areas of life, often on the material side of things. When it comes to quality of life, not living standards, it might be a different scenario.
!ENGAGE 30
ENGAGEtokens.