As long as Daddy is here

I am proud to be your Son

As long as Daddy is here everything will be fine…These were the words I kept on telling myself when the tragedy of Judah’s death struck us. I knew that something inside of me had changed forever even if I did not know what that meant at the time, but I knew that I was not going to be able to face this on my own… However, I manned up and did what had to be done.

That evening (when things came tumbling down) I phoned my Daddy. I will never forget what he said. He said, “My boy, I am so sorry, Daddy knows this is a tough thing to face… Daddy is here for you. We are on our way”. At that very moment I knew I would be OK. I phoned Daddy again at 03:00 in the morning when my heart felt like it had shrivelled up and died, when the pain was so overwhelming that it was all I could see and feel. Again Daddy woke up answered the phone and said, “Hello boy”. All I could do was cry. Daddy listened and then very lovingly and full of compassion responded, “the Lord is with you, He is our Strength right now. Just lean on Him, even if you do not understand everything right now, I am on my way. We will be there on Wednesday.”

That is my Dad, Joseph (Jerry) Pedro. Man of Faith! Man of Courage! Man of Strength! Man of Compassion! Always there for his children, no matter what!

I remember growing up, how Daddy would always seem to “bounce back” from every challenge he had in life. Daddy’s resilience is absolutely remarkable. When all the odds were stacked against him he would push back and overcome. The most important lessons I learned from your life, Daddy, was to own up to the decisions we make and to love unconditionally.

My prayer is that I can be at least half the man that you are. You taught me to stand my ground and reach for my goals. You showed me how to be a loving father, husband and friend. To protect and shield the ones I love.

I honour you Daddy! You are The Best Daddy I could ever ask for! Thank you for all you mean to me. I love you lots!

Comments

Stay strong!

"Stay Strong!" I heard my friend say to me... My response was, "I will try my best". As I sat down and I thought about this conversation. The more I thought about this the more I got convinced that it might not be entirely possible. These two words, as well as they mean has probably been my biggest down fall over the last three months. I mean... It is really easier said then done... What does it mean anyway? Does it mean don't cry (at least not in-front of us)? Does it mean don't show emotions? What do people mean when they say, "Stay Strong"? I say this not in a judgemental way or unappreciative of the sentiment, but rather in trying to make sense of this "grieving thing". I have been trying to be strong... but the more I try, the worse I feel. The more I pray for strength to carry my cross and follow Jesus, the harder it appears to be. I guess this is the law of nature or something... If a person wants muscles, then t

I miss you

My dear son Judah, born so small and sweet. Your presence in our lives was such a blessing. Today would have been your tenth year on Earth, but instead of celebrating your presence, we celebrate your precious worth. You were certainly gone too soon. My heart still aches, my soul still sinks. I miss your laughter, your smile, your touch. I miss you so much, my heart hurts so much. Your short life made a lasting impact, it's true, you taught me more than I ever taught you. You showed me the strength in a smile and you'll forever be my baby boy. I wish I could hold you, just one more time... Tell you I love you, that you are mine, but instead, I'll hold you in my heart each day. I'll cherish the memories in every way... My dear son Judah, I miss you So, but in my heart, your spirit will always live. I will smile today... I will step out courageous... In memory of you. Happy 10th birthday, my precious boy. You'll forever bring me love, light, and joy.

Random Faith Ramblings

I have come to realize that tragedy and strife often cause us to reflect and re-evaluate. I have had a bit of time to relook and reimagine life and faith. I have come to some kind of certainty that it is time for us (the Church) to have an honest conversation about the nature of our being and ministry. It is time for us to recognize and step up to the fact that the ministry and faith that we live and proclaim are not about our selfish needs and desires. As a Church, we are called to a higher purpose, a mission that extends beyond our personal desires and ambitions. The concept of the Missio Dei, the Mission of God, should shape and guide our understanding of ministry and faith. It is a concept that transcends our individual aspirations and egos. When we truly embrace the Missio Dei, we come to understand that our mission is not about building our own kingdoms or satisfying our personal agendas. It is about participating in the larger work of God in the world. As we reflect on the omnip

SUKKEL-VOORT - LIVING WITH GRIEF

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