I remember promising him that my first son will carry his name because he was that special to me. I was so happy when my son was born after having three daughters. I fulfilled that promise, but sad that he was not alive to see it. I hope my son could grow to be close to the kind of man that my grandfather was.
My grandfather and I weren't related genetically but by a stronger bond. For me he was my dad. He was there for me since I have memory, he allowed me to chase him around the yard because I was so curious, and he never mind my multiple silly questions. He was always so proud of me. He was there on my graduation from nursing school and he walked me down the aisle when I married. I still remember the wonderful wood house he built me for my 6th grade school project, or the time he allowed me to interview him for school because I thought he was one of the coolest people I knew and that was an understatement.
Today, I went back to read the letters we exchanged and that I have kept like the treasure they are. He couldn't write much because he spend most of his last year in and out of the hospital, but when he did his message was powerful. He always sent me passages from the Bible especially the Proverbs to help me find my way to live a fruitful life. His last letter to me was dated January 26, 1994, eleven days before he passed away. In this letter he wanted to give me a last message because he didn't know if he was going to have much more time left or if God had other plans. His message was one of hope that I was to teach my daughter Stephanie so she could live a a productive life, for me to lead by example and be wise, as a wise woman was the foundation of a healthy home, and to trust that God answers always come at the right time.
I don't want to remember my grandaddy based on the day that he passed but on the 25+ years I enjoyed him. My childhood was beautiful because he was part of it and I will never let go of his teachings and the memories we shared together. I learned how it felt to have a father through him, and what a real man was because of his example. My three younger kids never got to enjoy him, but they certainly know who he was because his presence in my life was so important that I want them to know. My kids will have enjoyed him so much, but I guess God had other plans.
The tears this morning are of sorrow because I wish we have had more time, but I am grateful that I had him in my life and couldn't imagined my childhood without his strong example. I hope he will be proud of the way I have chosen to live my life and raise my children. He will forever be the best man in my life. I will love you forever and our bond is eternal so your departure didn't break it.
My grandfather and me, at my wedding... July 1988.
This is the second Joaquin in my life. A gift from God.