“Suffering has been stronger than all other teaching, and has taught me to understand what your heart used to be. I have been bent and broken, but – I hope – into a better shape.” ― Charles Dickens, Great Expectations
My friends,
Anyone who has ever known me knows well of my father, for I was so grateful for being blessed with such an extraordinary man for a father and best friend.
Few words are worthy enough to accurately describe the impact he had on myself, my sister, my mother and thousands of other human beings – and furry creatures.
On this journey, I’ve met challenges but this one of late is the greatest of all.
A heart attack took my father, my best friend, suddenly from our lives in May.
Over the coming months, I must spend more time caring for myself and my family in order to adjust to this new normal.
I will soon return to volunteering, blogging and book writing with strengthened enthusiasm, courage and determination, for as my father wrote in 2012…
“Unquestionably, we should all seek to leave the world in balance to the best of our abilities,
Somehow
Someway
Prior to jumping on the Bonnie Boat and sailing away.”
I hope you are well.
Sorry for your loss, Jodi. Your Dad was a great person who left a wonderful legacy – you!
I know you’re going to get through this with strength, hope and determination and continue to be the light for kids and adults, traveling through their darkest hours.
Thinking of you and your family – sending healing wishes to all of you.
Sorry for your loss. I was wondering since haven’t heard much from you lately. Yes, new normal; that is what I had to find when I lost my father.
marvin
Marvin Dittfurth recently posted…Don’t Think. Jump
Love you, Jody. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers daily. You’ll get through this. And don’t forget I’m a phone call away.
I’m so so sorry to hear you’ve lost your Dad, Jody. From what you’ve written, he was a remarkable man and leaves a ginormous hole in your heart and life. I will keep you in my prayers and admire what you are doing now to take care of yourself and your family. Wishing you all the best…
Lisa Frederiksen – BreakingTheCycles.com recently posted…Addicts Are People – 7 Stigmas That Must Be Silenced
Hi Jody,
My heart goes out to you regarding your dad. I’m sorry for your loss! He sounds incredible being an “extraordinary man for a father and best friend”. My hope is that with time your heart can heal a bit. Know that he will be with you always. Hugs!
Cathy Taughinbaugh recently posted…How to Work Through the Grief of Addiction