Musings

I snapped this picture on a gray, rainy Sunday. Mom and Dad have been displaced by Hurricane Harvey for six months now, and the struggle is real.

On this particular day, Daddy sits in his favorite chair most of the morning, drinking coffee and reminiscing about him and Mother traveling and visiting old friends across the country. He calls a few by name and summons up small details of each visit. Many of their friends have passed away, of course, but today he is wishing he could see them all again.

With a heavy sigh, and a real longing in his voice, he begins singing, “Soon this life will all be over, and our pilgrimage will end. Soon we’ll take our heavenly journey; be at home again with friends….” It’s there that his voice trails off, and I find tears trickling down my cheeks. The moment is poignant, and I cling to it with all my strength.

Later, as he naps and waits for supper, I take this picture and wipe away another tear. I don’t know when my father’s earthly journey will finally end, but it’s been my highest honor to have served him and Mother these last few months.