Grace and Gratitude

Last week my father-in-law's long struggle with Alzheimers and/or vascular dementia ended. He passed away at his home under the devoted care of his beloved wife. I am sure that he is in a better place now. Being trapped within his own body and mind, unable to embrace life with the energy and enthusiasm that was typically him, failed to rob him of his faith and optimism. Faith in God so unwavering and optimism that things would always get better, even if in a way not fully comprehended by the human mind. He was an ordinary man who lived an extraordinary life of value, honor, service and love. Not a day went by when he didn't greet and close the day with prayer. Never did he fail to express his love to his family and friends with a kiss, hug, or handshake. Stranger was not in his vocabulary. He befriended all he met and took great care to extend that friendship to those whom society rejects. Never seeking accolades for his service, he humbly volunteered his time to his church and community, serving as board member or dishwasher, fundraiser or mentor, repairman or teacher, actor or clown. He was a buzz of hyperactivity, seizing the day with great intention. Yet he was able to center himself through prayer and reflection. He was always grateful for the goodness in his life. And when things went wrong, as they always will, he was optimistic that it was going to get better. He was not perfect and he recognized that. He simply chose to never stop trying and to look for the lesson in failure. His optimism allowed him an ability to see hope where others saw despair, to seek out the good in spite of the bad, to live a life of grace without the need for glory. His spirit will remain in our hearts and hopefully live on through us as we seek our own path to grace and humanity. I am honored to have known him.