being there

While my stepson is at the age where those in his circle are getting married and having babies, those in my age group are going through divorces and experiencing the increase in deaths that hit close-to-home. This phenomena seemed to hit hard five years ago, when the death of my stepdad hit my world.

Papa’s passing was that experience that first made me realize that those who I expect will be around forever (or at least until my own kids are grown) won’t necessarily be there. Papa’s death was just the first. In the years that followed, his absence was felt at the family gatherings, holidays, sporting events, celebrations, devastations, and today.

I’ve said it before, Papa was there for us throughout our teen years and early adulthood. He showed us how to love life and each other when those around us seemed unable. He loved and raised us as if we were his own. He showed us how to be there for friends and family — by showing up, lending a hand (if needed), and saying “I love you” as often as possible.

Papa taught us what he could and encouraged us to strive for the rest. From the time I first met him, he was ever-present in our lives. And still, 5 years after his passing, his presence is felt.