The Kindness of Sharing Memories

“The most important thing in the world is family and love.”

~ John Wooden

My father would have celebrated his 80^th birthday today, but he died 17 years ago – a day before his 63^rd.  I enjoy remembering my dad and tell my family ahead of time that we will celebrate his birthday.  My son remembered and woke me up with “Happy Birthday.”  I have to admit that I was a little confused.  A little later in the morning – and once I was fully awake , my siblings and I shared memories and photos of my father on our group chat.  My family and I went to a restaurant and sang Happy Birthday to my father over dessert.  My brother took his children to my father’s grave.  My brother shared that he thought my father enjoyed the visit.  We all miss my dad, but remembering together gives us comfort and reminds us of his love.