The days hit hard and heavy, and the memories come on strong. God took you before I was ready, as if I could ever prepare for you being gone. Under your protection, I could always tell the truth. And you had this laugh of understanding, letting me know you knew what I was going through. No judgment passed, just that twinkle in your eye telling me what I should do. It’s not that I always heeded your advice, but it was the way you could make me feel better about failing and even more – how to dig in my heels and push on through. And even now when I know what you would want us all to do, my sorrow clouds the voice of your wisdom, and the blow to my gut has made it hard to understand a life without you.

Dad, I know I’ll find my footing, eventually, but it will be a hollow victory ’til I see your smile again.

~ Susan