A Walk Down Memory Lane: Celebrating My Father’s Life

“Although it’s difficult today to see beyond the sorrow, may looking back in memory help comfort you tomorrow.” –Author unknown

This upcoming Wednesday, December 6th, marks the 22nd anniversary of the day I lost my dad. Ever since I was 9 years old, the majority of my life has been shaped by the lingering memories from that day. However, allowing these memories to tarnish the precious moments I was fortunate enough to share with my dad simply disrespects the depth of our relationship. For several years, I have made a deliberate effort to use this time of year to cherish those memories and celebrate the time I had with him. In today’s blog, I would like to share a couple of stories that never fail to bring a smile to my face.

As a little one, I loved visiting my dad at work. At his work, there was a showroom that was filled with doors. I used to love running in and out of the assortment of doors. One day, while visiting my dad, I had to use the bathroom and since I was 4 or 5, I was big enough to go by myself. Everything was going fine until I sat on the toilet. Unbeknownst to me, the toilet seat was up. As I sat down, I fell back into the toilet and found myself stuck. I tried for a few minutes to get out of the toilet with no success.

After what seemed like forever trying to escape my porcelain prison, I screamed out for my dad. Moments later, my dad burst through the bathroom door. His face went from frantic to laughing hysterically as he saw his daughter trapped in the toilet as if I were a turtle stuck on its back. Just like the hero he was, he easily lifted me out of the toilet and helped clean me up. After making sure I was okay and comforting me, he was able to help me laugh off my embarrassment.

When I got to spend time with my dad, I always enjoyed watching him joke around and get into mischief. One of my most treasured memories was of our last Halloween together. My mom, older brother, and I met with my dad and step-family to go Trick-or-Treating as a blended family. When we got to my dad’s, he was dressed in full garb as a woman. From the wig to the make-up, all the way to women’s shoes, my dad resembled a bearded Mrs. Doubtfire. By the end of the night, my face hurt from laughing so hard as I watched my dad strut his stuff all through the neighborhood as we kids happily collected candy.

Though I lost my dad too soon, I am grateful for the time I was able to have with him. This time of the year, it is important for me to give myself the time and space to cherish these memories. Not only did my dad have a sense of humor, but he was also one of the most compassionate individuals I have ever encountered in my life. Gregory G. Oswald, you will forever be my hero. 

As we near the end of the year, most people reflect on the year that is coming to an end and start thinking of the resolutions they want to make for the upcoming year. Join me next week as I delve into goal setting and how to create healthy goals for ourselves. If you or a loved one is seeking support in working towards a goal or your journey of self-growth, set up a free consultation on my appointment page. Don’t forget, we all can rise from our ashes and soar.