My Grandpa Pete died today.
I guess it was to be expected. Apparently, he's been unresponsive for a couple of days. He had late stage Parkinsons as well as other health problems. He's been pretty bad off for quite some time now.
He used to live down the street from me. But that doesn't mean I saw him often enough. About a year ago, he moved to live with his daughter and finally to a facility that could take care of him in the best way possible. So it feels a bit surreal to know that someone who has been literally gone for a while is now really and truly gone.
In the Kingdom of God, he would not be gone. Just moved. But I don't know that my Grandfather was a Christian. It's not for lack of trying. Believe me, he knew the truth of God's plan for our lives. I just am not aware that he ever made the decision to live a life for Christ. But I certainly don't want to dwell on that thought. It's too sad.
Instead, I will remember him as my imperfect grandfather. I know he loved me in his own way. I never expected much from him, and he never expected much from me. He was always in my life, but since my daughters were born, I think he made a renewed effort to be to them what he never got to be for me. And I appreciate that immensely. I love that he loved my girls. That is enough for me.
Good-bye Grandpa Pete.
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7 comments:
I'm sorry you dont have the peace of knowing where he is; I can relate as my family are not believers either. I hope you do see him again though and that you live right down the street again. ;)
Thanks for the kind words - Dad
Nice post Michelle.
It's always so surreal to lose someone you care about.
We're praying for your family.
I'm sorry for your loss. I'm praying and hoping that he will once again be down the street from you.
Michelle, we've not met; I hope someday we can. I am your Dad's cousin Scott Moore. While it's clear in Scripture that those who accept Jesus will be saved, and those who reject Him will be condemned, it's not clear what happens to those who do neither. It's also a question of whether someone has really, really had a true revelation of who Jesus really is - not just some other person's idea. I have hope that some of my loved ones (including your grandfather - and your grandmother, too, whom I also knew)did not not reject the true historical gift of Jesus, and that God may not be through with them yet. I don't know how, but I encourage you and your family not to despair (if indeed you are). I believe that God will one day sort things out so that everything is utterly fair.
Please accept my condolences for your (our) loss.
Hi Michelle,
I am another of your Dad's cousins, and Scott's sister, Jan Taddeo. Thank you for your thoughtful reflection about your Grandpa Pete. You and your whole family are in my prayers as you cope with the loss of one so close and well loved. Please give my love and regards to your dad, and to his sisters.
What a generous affection you expressed in this post. you capacity for loving is inspiring. We are praying for you and all the family.
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