Grandpa Fred and Thankfulness

With Thanksgiving on the horizon, a little perspective and thanksgiving is in need on this little blog of mine. On October 31, 2010 my Grandpa Fred went to join God's party up in heaven, and as difficult as it's been to lose him, there were some pretty beautiful things that happened with his passing.

Through this whole process of getting older, it has really opened my eyes to how important it is to stay close to your family. I mean, I'm someone who is already very close to my family (both immediate and extended), and I realized that without this closeness, the death of my grandpa would have felt like an impossible "part of life" without the rest of my family. Moreover, had I not invested my time with my family, I wouldn't have all of these wonderful memories of my grandpa to hold onto now that he's gone. I am so grateful that I didn't skip out on Sunday mornings with them because they were almost always spent telling stories, scratching lotto tickets, and enjoying each other over breakfast. I do not regret the time spent caring for any of their needs--when I could be out doing my "own thing" instead. The idea of investing time in others is so crucial, and I am glad I have not taken that for granted.

In addition to family, my faith has been so vital. To have peace and know that my grandpa trusted in God so much--in everything he did. I have no doubt that he is being taken care of by the King of Kings. I also love the beauty of the mass and how when I take communion, I am sharing in the same meal of all those who have passed and are with the Lord. It's really quite amazing when you think about it.

So, to sum it all up, I am grateful for the many blessings I have received--even within my sorrow and loss. Happy Thanksgiving everyone.