Because I Love You

ChatGPT generated image Once upon a time there was a family of brothers, Jaden, Larry, Melvin, and Michael. Jaden was the oldest, next was Larry, then Melvin, followed by Micheal the youngest. One day, they went fishing with their father, something they all looked forward to whenever their father had the time. Their father was a great man in the town, the Mayor, and he rarely had time to spend with his family, but Sundays was his official day off. “No city work tomorrow,” their dad would announce on Saturday nights. And when his wife was away for the weekend visiting her relatives and not taking the boys to church, he would add, “I’m taking my boys fishing!” The boys would squeal with glee, especially Jaden and Michael. Jaden always wanted to drive. “Can I drive, please?’ “No Jaden, not until you get your permit.  “But you started driving when you were 15.”  “That was a different time, son. One day you will be driving your brothers around, just wait.”  Their father’s word...

I wrote this tribute the day I was hit with the devastating news of my father's passing, Thursday 11/2/2006. Looking back, writing has always been my response to life's greatest challenges and blessings. Today, is the 19th anniversary of his passing. Last year, I posted a story about him, but I didn't share this tribute.  Contemplating A Life Well Lived, written November 2, 2006, Thursday My father, Elza “Buddy” Cannaday, was born on August 20, 1922.  He lived for 84+ years and died on November 1, 2006. Correction…My father’s spirit was conceived sometime before August 20, 1922.  His body was born on August 20th.  His spirit and body sojourned together for 84+ years.  His spirit and body embraced life.  He took a meager beginning and drafted it into a life spectacular; a life of love of self, the love of his mother, finding the love of his life, love for his family and friends, love of God, and forgiveness for others. When Daddy’s body contracted leukemia, ...