A Tribute to My Daddy

05 May 2004
Today, my dear Daddy, the angels took you home. You are gone from my sight but will be forever in my heart. My mind is full of so many wonderful memories, each just as special as the other. I've always been proud to say I am a Daddy's girl and almost 55 years I've held that role, now, still the same but gone are the days I can physically know the feeling of those wonderful Daddy hugs. You were always there for me, never judging, never condemning, never to reprimand even tho you were aware of so many misjudgments on my part. I have and always will hold you in the highest esteem, no one on earth deserves better than you. How I was blessed being your daughter amazes me, I think of times when I know I hurt or disappointed you, your heart and forgiveness was bigger than the universe, always kind, loving and gentle. The many lives you touched and enriched just by being the person you are, are as countless as there are stars in the heavens. I know you are happy now, free from the hurt and sufffering of this old world you left behind. You've been reunited with all the loved ones who have gone on before; I just wonder who was first to greet you when you entered those heavenly gates. My tears are selfish ones, I'm feeling so sorry for myself, I've lost my Daddy and my heart is breaking feeling my loss. I remember those times when I was sad or hurt, just to lay my head on your chest, your arms around me and everything was made right. This morning as I laid my head on your chest and placed your arm across me, I could hear your heart slowly beating. The hardest words I ever spoke were the ones that told you it was ok to go. It must have been what you were waiting for, as no sooner did I say it that your heartbeat began to fade, then it was gone. I know you knew I was there as earlier you mouthed the words "I Love You" and it wasn't my imagination, the others in the room saw it also. Oh Daddy, I love you, I'll always miss you and no one could of picked a better Daddy than I did. I believe when it is my time to leave this earth the first face I'll see is my beloved Daddy waiting with open arms, and once again I can lay my head on your chest and everything will be just fine. Forever your daughter, Susan.

Original writing of Susan Bressman, not to be copied or used without permission

Author's Notes/Comments:

I didn't know my mother because she passed away when I was very young, it was always my Daddy that stood strong and true. A wonderful man, a good man. He fought for our country survived two wars, he was one of the lucky ones that was able to come home. In honor of Veterans Day and also my Dad, thank God for our military people who give all they have.