Dear Pop,
24 years ago today, my heart was broken when I got the phone call you had passed away. Today, it seems like it just happened again….it is so fresh in my memory bank. There isn’t a day that you are not mentioned, laughing at your sayings, being so thankful for your loyalty and constant love to your family, your job and how you were so firm in being honest, never, ever lying and teaching us to do the same.
Also your fierce but quiet pride of being Irish is so instilled in me, that when asked, I always say I’m Irish with about as much pride as you.
Growing up, like all teenagers, I hated how strict you were and then, when I had my daughter, I raised her the same way. Thank you.
Thanks again Pop for ensuring we always had a roof over our heads, food on the table and clothes on our backs.
Teaching us that your handshake was bond, your bills were always paid and helping others when and if you can has not gone astray with me.
I love you still but wish some days that I could really hear your voice when you sang and laughed, instead of simply remembering.
And yes, I am wearing my Shamrock earrings today.
Love you.
