I’ll never forget the day my father passed away. On Sunday, 12/2/2018 at 4:00am, I received a phone call from the hospital. They informed me that my father had moved on!
I quickly got dressed, went to the hospital and literally sat in the hospital room with him, alone, for at least an hour. I was in disbelief (and still is), as I reflected on the profound impact he has had on my life!
For the next week, leading up to the funeral, I cried many hours. Running ramped were feelings of anger, grief and “Why did this have to happen?!”
After the funeral, it was very hard for me to do anything. The day after the funeral, I attempted to run a Youth Hoops basketball camp. It was to no avail. At the start of camp, as I was speaking with campers, I broke down in tears, and ran to the restroom. I was forced to dismiss myself, and go back home.
Presently, at least 2 -3 times per week, my raw feelings are still ever present. There are certain things that trigger my feelings: “Officer and a Gentleman” movie, “Smokey and the Bandit” theme music and vase of my father’s ashes in my office. Each reminds me of specific memories I have with my father.
All of these things contribute to why I’m still hurting inside!
Why am I telling you this? Here it is. If I feel this way as a 51 year old man, imagine how our kids will feel if we’re not around. Our kids are at an age where they really need us! If we’re not around, their life could take a dramatic turn for the worse. That being said, I’m extremely cautious and aware of my actions as it relates to my kids. We’re their lifelines!
As parents, we give our kids’ love and care, a house to live in, great schools to attend, and expose them to great self-development programs such at Youth Hoops Basketball Camps. Without you, this may not happen.
So here is the bottom line, hug your kids every day. Tell them you love them (repeatedly)! Maximize every moment you have, and create life-long memories with them! Create a legacy! Life is way too short!
