#yahrzeit

My dad was always asking about how my friends were doing when he was stuck in the hospital. He remembered all their names and pronouns and what they did for work or studied in school. I always thought he didn't pay much attention to those things. My dad's final lesson was a reminder to me, through the simple act of remembering the little things about my life that were fulfilling, was the same as the very first. My dad taught me kindness.

When I eventually get to Heaven too, I want to have become a man my father could be proud of. Not someone necessarily wealthy or famous, but comfortable and happy. Kind and warm. Loved by the ones I love back.

I'm so grateful for all the loved ones I have around me this year. Even if there is a Dad-shaped hole in my heart, I have loved ones of my own now who fulfill me and make me feel like a whole person.