goodbye

Bonpa has had some health issues in the past.

He was diagnosed with lung cancer about 3 weeks ago. They said he had 3 weeks to live and he died 2 weeks after that (last Saturday). He lost body functions quickly. I think he waited for all of his children to arrive and say goodbye.  

tears

He was such a wonderful man, great father and husband, it's sad to see him go. 

But we know he is in a better place now, and without pain or shame.  

He's where he would want to be, 

at the foot of the Lord whom he served.

I want to be like my Bonpa, always loving, always asking the important questions, and making a joke. He served in prison ministry well into his 80's. He held his wife's hand until his dying day. 

photo by Michelle Young ---www.endearingstudios.com

This is how I will remember him, squeezing my shoulders firmly, but gently, looking into my eyes

with a  a slight squint, real smile, and a hint of a laugh.

I will fly out tonight: To Iceland, then the Netherlands.

I will take a train to Belgium on Friday when I arrive. 

I will see all my sweet relatives.

I will miss my darling husband. 

I will cry. 

I will not wear black, because Bonpa didn't want us to. 

I will tear up because he wanted bright colors to represent life.

I will celebrate a life well lived, a race well run, a legacy left for me and my descendants.