Done graduated. . . .now for the current story

Here I am again; just when you thought it was safe to go in the water.

It's been a FULL eleven months since I left the 'hallowed halls' of Alfred University.

Did you wonder how things turned out?

So far:

1. I graduated with honors (3.56 GPA) Yes! Yes! I got to wear the coveted tassel. . .
2. My brother, sister-in-law, Sister and brother-in-law, (that's NOT a typo) niece and nephew made it to my graduation (and, I was deeply honored.)
3. I had yet another surgery on my right-hand middle finger and thumb
4. I made several visits to see my Mom and Dad who were not able to make it to my graduation due to my long suffering father's multiple illnesses
5. Immersed myself in yet another beautiful Summer in upper New York State
6. I went to the family wake and funeral of a (too young) cousin-in-law
7. But, nothing compares to the ability to be present for my family during the death of my father on January 8th 2011.

How can I say this?

I can say this because I learned the true meaning of love and surrender as I watched my father reveal his pure soul and his undying love for my mother. I watched with an open heart, several days before he slipped into eternity, the transforming power of love as my mother bent over my father's bed and there faces seemed illuminated and rejuvenated (as if years of age had been erased) while they gazed into each others' eyes.

I felt that, up until this moment, I never truly felt the depth, the glory of God, the preciousness of human life and the slender connection between life and eternity that surrounds us at every moment.

I had truly never known my father until just moments before he slipped peacefully away.

I am so grateful I got to see him reveal to me his pure, sweet, innocent soul.

What was the most transforming moment of my life?

Holding my father's frail, bruised hand, stroking his forehead, telling him I loved him.

I am so grateful to been a part of his blessed transition. I only hope that my death will be as holy as was his.

Goodnight Daddy.