My Dad

My dad isn’t here this Father’s Day.

For the first time in my life, I face Father’s Day without my father.

He died nine months ago, on a Wednesday. I was there beside his hospital bed.

I was there.

But I still can’t believe it.

So, even though I want a happy Father’s Day for my husband -- and for all the other fathers out there -- I’m sad.

I’m just too sad.

I wish I could hug my dad today. I wish I could talk to him and hear him answer and see his face (for real, not just in pictures) and look into his eyes. I wish we could play Quoridor fifty times in a row, or however many times it would take for him to be the “Champion” and for me to remain the “Champion-to-be”…

He’ll always be the Champion -- my Champion.

I wish he could play with my daughter, lift her up and feel her giggling in his arms. I wish I could tell him that he was the greatest dad. My life will never be the same without him.

I wish, I wish, I wish…

For my sister and brother and mom, my endless love and many hugs. I know how you feel. I’m thinking of you.

For my family and friends without fathers this Father’s Day, my love and deepest sympathy.

Remember him.

“They lived and laughed and loved and left.” ~James Joyce

“[A] final comfort that is small, but not cold: The heart is the only broken instrument that works.” ~T.E. Kalem

I love you, Dad.

I miss you every day.

Always yours,
KJ of America