My dad is almost 87 and should probably win the ‘best attitude’ award in
the ‘over 50’ category.
He is always happy and positive, and glad to see
everyone. And I mean everyone . . . which results in people wanting to be
around him. He brightens up any group, because he loves life.
Last summer I picked Dad up to take him to our house for an afternoon of
hanging by the pool and a cookout with the family, including Cindy and I, one
granddaughter, grandson-in-law and two great-grandkids. On the way, as he was
looking out the window, enjoying the trees and the California sun, he said,
“Life is good.”
I stopped for a moment, amazed at his ability to either forget what he’s
just been through, (which might be a blessing of old age) or to focus solely on
God’s goodness and His many blessings. This was coming from someone whose last
two years have involved nothing but major change and loss.
Aging…and all that comes with that.
The severe illness of a spouse.
A forced move to another state with two days notice.
Dramatic change…(hard enough for us young people).
A car accident that totaled his car.
Death of his wife of 52 years.
Yet still, “Life is good.” At least once each week when we are together
with our California family for a meal, he tears up and says, “God is so good.
Our family is so blessed.” And he’s right. For Dad, life is good because in every situation, he sees that God is good.
Yesterday was the 2nd anniversary of my mom’s death. Our
daughter Sheena posted this on her facebook page two years ago today, April 30, 2013.
My grandpa is my hero... We
left the funeral home from making arrangements and ran by Walgreens. The
cashier was just trying to be friendly and asked how he was doing today. He
said, "ok." And when she asked, "just ok?" he told her
about the car accident he was in last week, but said that no one was hurt too
bad and that insurance was covering it. She responded by telling him he was
lucky. And he said, "I am very blessed."
Even in the midst of sadness and mourning, he knows who is in control and whose hands he is in.
Even in the midst of sadness and mourning, he knows who is in control and whose hands he is in.
That’s it!
Dad’s is the attitude and outlook of gratitude and of faith. No matter what is happening, God is good, so life is good.
If you’re in a storm, look for the rainbow today. If you’re in a
difficult season, count your blessings…name them one by one, and it will
surprise you what the Lord has done.
Enjoying the Journey,
David
2 comments:
We ARE blessed! What a treasure to have had a great upbringing where our parents set a Loving example And all they wanted was for us to love and follow God. The rest falls into place when that comes first. Thank you mom (miss you!) and dad (miss you too, but enjoy our visits!). Love you!!
Your father has been an inspiration to many. As was your mother. They were both a great influence in my teen yrs. May our Lord continue to bless him, and your entire family!
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