A short post to say farewell to one of my best friends - my Dad.
Francis Richard Maher had many roles in his life. He cherished each and every one of them. A few years ago, at my bride's recommendation, I did something that I am eternally grateful to have had the opportunity to perform. An eulogy is typically a testament to a friend or family member that has passed. Instead - I took a living eulogy to my father on his 65th birthday. I had no idea at that point that the good Lord would call him home in under 3 years.
I had the opportunity to tell him exactly what I felt about him, the example that he set for his family and friends and the way he had changed so many lives. This was not intended for any purpose other than to let him know how I will remember him - it simply was not to be shared, and so it will remain. When I finished my Dad looked me in the eye, wiped a single tear, and said ' I had no idea.'. We talked about this several times over the past 3 years and he gained an understanding of just how wonderful a man he was and how many lives he had influenced.
Since he passed nearly two weeks ago, I have received a number of notes/calls/posts from friends old and new that shared their thoughts on my Dad. They shared of lessons learned and experiences shared with my friend and father and much to my surprise many of them had already been shared with Dad that day at Piney Run Park.
If you love someone - tell them.
If you miss someone - call them.
If you have something to say - do it now.
We know not the day, nor the hour when we may breath our last. You may not have the opportunity to share what you want/need - do it today.
Watch over me my guardian. Remind me of lessons learned and shared. Help me to be what I am to be.
