It's exactly one year my Dad passed away. I've been thinking about him and the many struggles he had health-wise in the tail end of his life. A good man through and through, I recall questioning God why such a terrible and challenging Fate had to befall him. Losing him was really painful, but as the very least we were encouraged that his suffering had finally ended.
It has been a year now and am surprised by how distant the pain is. I remember him very fondly, but I certainly don't feel pain or the need to break down in tears. I rather smile or daydream when I am carried away by thoughts of him which doesn't come automatically even. I remember him when I want to remember him, and what I feel right now is a comforting conflict of emotions. Am okay not remembering all the time, but it feels sort of strange, like I moved on too quickly.
Regardless I've always known that time has a way of covering all wounds. What may seem dire in the moment will inevitably be figured out with passing time. Perhaps this provides an important lesson to be learned, and that's never to get too carried away in the moment, be It positive emotion or negative emotion. Each passing day brings with it a new chapter that we are presented with. Time brings with it the ability to heal, learn and grow. Oftentimes we are too impatient to appreciate these benefits.
I certainly still miss my Dad a whole lot, but I've adjusted rather quickly to life without him. I know that's not the same for everyone, especially my Mom. Yet she too has found a way to cope and move on, even though the healing process is quite slow. Having been a good Father and role model to his kids, I'll do my best to remember my dad in the best way possible by honouring his principles and values through his lifetime.