Not long ago I visited the cemetery where my parents are buried. It is always a bitter-sweet time for me, in that, I feel so fortunate to have had such wonderful, loving parents and, on the other hand, I really miss them.Today I've been thinking about my dad. He would have turned 87 years old today. No one loved birthdays more than him. He relished the coming together to celebrate a birthday; especially when it was his. He loved the cake and ice cream and the traditional bad singing that accompanied the singing of "Happy Birthday." Were he alive today he would say that he didn't really care whether he got any presents or not but I know he was fond of the cheap aftershave and the hip-hop ties I got him over the years.
He taught me how to throw and catch a baseball. He gave me advice on dating and how to properly treat a woman (he was quite the lady's man). He taught me the value of having a good family name and why it was important to have faith in God. I could write volumes on the life lesson's he gave me. Every young man would have been fortunate to have a father like him.
I have so many wonderful memories of growing up at 25 Mullin Street and the love that was shared within those walls. My dad had a great sense of humor and always loved a good practical joke. His laugh was infectious. It was my father that taught me that sometimes you have to laugh or you'll cry. Sometimes life is hard; really hard. Sometimes the hand you're dealt in life can be cruel but it's all about how you handle it. Laughter and prayer...that's how he did it. Another great life lesson.
So here's to you Dad. "Happy Birthday to you; Happy Birthday to you; Happy Birthday dear Dad; Happy Birthday to you!" You're the best.
Be Well.
