Isn't it kind of funny to love someone you've never met before?
But I do love you. I love you for the husband you were to my Granny, for the father you were to my own father. I love you for the way your daughter lights up and smiles when she talks about you. I love you for the stories I've grown up hearing all of my life, the stories that have helped me feel connected to you, connected to a part of our family I have yet to meet on the brown soil of this earth. But as mama says, you picked me out and sent me down here, so perhaps our souls have already crossed.
I never tired of hearing of you, and you give me hope that perhaps my children won't tire of hearing about their uncle one day, that perhaps they'll feel a mutual connection and rich presence of him, just like I have grown up feeling of you.
I know the day I'll meet you in Heaven will be a fun one. I imagine that big smile playing across your face and a reunion a lifetime in the making. I'll see you then, Pa.
Thank you & I love you.