Grand Goodbyes

Many years ago I said goodbye to my grandparents.
All but one left this earth before I was a parent, the last just shortly after.
How I wish my children could have known them.
There is always a sadness when our loved ones are taken too soon...I, however, was blessed with a new wonderful grandpa, one my children got to know.
I married into a family that boasted more longevity than my own.
And I said hello to Grandpa Ralph.

One of the great things about G'pa Ralph that eased that ache in my soul was that his manner was familiar.
He reminded me of my grandpas.
Few words but big, back-pounding hugs.
His "oh yep, uh huh, sure" was a sufficient response to most questions.
Quiet faith.
He had a belly laugh that was music to the ears and a commanding presence.
And in the end, his stoic demeanor spoke of the quiet inner strength in the midst of the unknown.

I had the privilege of helping care for him in the last few weeks, stopping in here and there to change a dressing or two, see how he was feeling and offer a word of encouragement.
When we spoke the last time he said I was a wonderful addition to the family.
And I told him I'm lucky to know that my husband will one day grow to be a dapper old man, looking darn good just like his grandfather before him.
He met Jesus on Monday.
Glimpses of heaven where in his eye gate as he had one foot in this world and one foot in the next.
He spoke of those gone before him, of a deal made with Jesus, of raspberries and of fishing.
And oh how he loved his wife...

In the midst of the sadness I am so grateful for the gift of knowing him and calling him Grandpa.
What a sweet thing to get an inside glimpse at my husband's heritage.
To have known the patriarch of the family and rest firmly in the knowledge that my husband and my sons will be good men, like their grandfather before them.
Men who love God, love their family, love others.
Blessed Assurance.

Grandpa, don't forget to tell Jesus I said hi. ;)