My Favorite Memory
by Steve West on September 22, 2018
Yesterday, we held the memorial service for my father-in-law. There were approximately 100 people attending and afterward about 1/3 gathered at his home for a small meal and sharing remembrances. I chose to share my memory of the time, twenty years ago, when I asked him for his blessing for my planned proposal to Brenda, his eldest daughter. I called him and we arranged a visit to discuss an important matter. I went to his house same day and just the two of us sat in his living room. I was very nervous. Norm had a demeanor and reputation for being a tough, no-nonsense kind of guy. So after a few minutes of chat, he asked me what was on my mind. I told him of my plan to propose to Brenda and that I was there to ask for his blessing. I told him that whether he gave it or not, I was going to propose but in all honesty, I would truly like to receive it. He pondered that for a minute and then replied, "I've always wanted one thing for Brenda. That someday someone would enter her life and would love her as much as I do. And that man would let nothing - not even me - get in his way of marrying her. I sense that in you and therefore, I give you my blessing." Although this took place two decades ago, the memory is still fresh in my mind. I had never told Brenda the complete details of that event and when I had finished recounting the story to the group of friends and family, I turned to Brenda and, as tenderly as I could, assured her that, "Your father loved you so much." She soaked my shoulder with tears of mixed sadness and joy.
One Reply to My Favorite Memory
Web Junkie
Steve West scours the Web searching for interest or absurdity and then shakes his head ruefully when he finds it. Read more »
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Scott Hardie | September 26, 2018
That's an excellent tribute, Steve. Norm's strength and devotion to his family outlive him.