I find it no surprise, that the sun comes out for Grandpa
I find it no surprise that after a week of storms, and dark clouds, that the sun came out right around when I got a phone call that my Grandpa had passed away. He had been in bad shape all week, and the storms had been a haunting indication that he was not enjoying life like he once had.
I find it no surprise that in my teenage years, dark and sometimes stormy, when my mom re-married and I felt the urge to lash out in angst at my sudden loss of being her one and only priority, I was given the gift of inheriting a grandfather. A man who for the next 15+ years would treat me like I was always a grandson and smile whenever we met. Most people experience such a special person from childhood. Not all get to know their grandparent as an adult. I was fortunate to meet a most special man named George Parry for perhaps my most formative years, and I know for a fact, I am a better person due to his influence.
I find it no surprise that everyone who knew Grandpa had a smile emerge on their face when he would come up in conversation. There was no use trying to fight it. The man evoked kindness and warmth with every story he told. He was an orator, who never failed to deliver a great tale. The moral of each story he told was never explicit…it was up to you to figure out what it was. And I am sure each person came away from time with Grandpa with a different but equally special influence. The man was such a special story teller, who eloquently began each with, “that reminds me of a time-” followed by an effective pause to collect the details and of course your undivided attention.
I find it no surprise that right now, as I look outside my window, the palm trees gradually sway in recovery and soak in their first sun of the week. Its has been cloudy and stormy for days and they have been tormented by hail and strong winds. Palm fronds litter the street as evidence of their week long battle.
I find it no suprise that now, I have his story to tell, of the sun coming out to shine, as warm memories of a most special man envelope me, and the streets slowly dry from days of rain.
It “reminds me of a time…”
Rest in peace Grandpa, and thank you for coming into my life when you did. I will forever be grateful.