Because I Love You

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, ...

Today eighteen years ago, at 5:30am EST / 2:30am PST, my father transitioned from his earthly body to the Heavens. Elza “Buddy” Cannaday became a saint and joined the other saints.  I believe Dad knew what was going to happen to his family, after he died, and he made the choice to come back to try and help us.  Some of us needed him in a special way, a way that only Dad could fill.  I believe he decided to visit me because he felt he owed me more time, and he knew I was about to make one of the most important decisions in my life. Perhaps, Dad’s arrival into Heaven went something like this: DAD’S INTERVIEW AT THE PEARLY GATES – MAYBE? Normally I could pull out a few pictures from my wallet and show you, my family.  “Ha, ha.”  I’ve never left home without any money in my pockets let alone no pockets, or pants. Now that’s funny.  My Grandkids would be asking, “Papa, where’s your pants?  How come you ain’t got on no pants? You told us never to leave home ...