Heroes and Hand Grenades

Growing up, I was always a daddy's girl. Me and my dad would hang out every Saturday morning. We would get up early, go and have breakfast together and then go visit Granny in the nursing home. I treasured these Saturday adventures! However, our relationship hit a serious snag after mom died and we are still trying to rebuild it.

During this interval, another man came into my life and has played a pretty serious role. My grandfather, Pa, is my hero. He has become so much more than just Pa...he's my best friend and my role model. Over the last several years, his health has seriously declined. The strong, vibrant man of my childhood has grown weak and thin. On Saturday night he had a small stroke and while it did not cause any permanent damage, I am very concerned about it. It breaks my heart to see him decline like this. I know that death is an inevitable event and nothing can be done to stop it, but the little kid in me is screaming "YOU HAVE MY MOM, DON'T TAKE MY GRANDPA TOO!!". I know that is a childish thing to say, but oh well! *stamps foot!*

In all seriousness, my grandfather has been an inspiration to me. He is a strong man of God who has overcome many obstacles. He greets situations with a unique blend of compassion and humor. I admire him for his courage, strength and endurance. One day, I hope to be just like him...