Those moments

Last night I got some time with my Dad. I asked questions and did way more listening than talking. I was supposed to meet up with a friend but as life would have it, he was busy with work. Thank Goodness. I love it when moments line up. Plans change, and the conversation that was meant to be had, is. I am in awe of my father. I adore him. I love his perspective and wit. He has a way of making everything clear and meaningful. He told me of his past loves and passions and of events in the courtroom that stood out. He was feeling good and able to focus his eyes. They glistened. I thought to myself, he made me. He is in me. Right at that moment my father said to me, "I see a lot of me in you." Wow. I felt so blessed and honored to be in that group. A person like him. I still don't see much of it, but I trust him, and therefore believe it. I awoke this morning to find him much altered, modern medical science is terrifying. My strong father was weak and in pain. His hands and feet were on fire and he was unable to walk or hold a cup. Getting him to the clinic was difficult and overwhelming. This man who has argued in front of the Supreme Court was at my mercy, and I was grateful to be able to help him. I am fearful of his future and of that pain that will increase. Family relationships are tense and surreal. The love is palpable as well as the fear. This reality that has become mine is strange and different and wonderful. I think of the people that are lucky enough to call him friend and then I think of us who are blessed enough to call him Dad, Brother, Son, Uncle. Everyone leaves a stamp on this world, an imprint of themselves both in life and in death. I wonder who has really known this man? I know this Man! These moments are what life is all about, these moments.