Posted by Jim Powell on September 03, 2002 at 00:54:40 from 4.65.62.33 hnllhi1-ar1-4-65-062-033.hnllhi1.dsl-verizon.net :
It's been 30 years since Mom died. I've been thinking about her alot the past couple of days. And of course I think about you just about every day. You're in my dreams quite often and as you'd know, I've gotten used to your being there. It's been nice, and nice to get over the shock of having to tell you you're dead. the first couple of times I met you in my dreams it was kinda rough -- not on me, but you. The last couple of times you've grown into your role (ha, that even sounds like you)and we've had some good chats, but all too brief. Well, I can't remember much. The other night, or week or whatever it was I remember confronting you again in my dream, saying "Dad, you know you're dead." "I know, Jimmy." "Well...?" "Well, I'm going to keep showing up as long as you bring me here." "Oh." And I went about my business in the dream, whatever that was. So, anyway it's comforting to know you're in there. It just amazes me how one person can have such a profound impact on others -- they way you have had on me, and Stephen and so many others who loved you. And then there's Mom. It seems we all have a purpose, don't we? Mom brought me and Steve into the world and taught us a lot of things. I certainly owe her a lot; it seems sad to me that the positive learnings often had negative foundations, nonetheless I'll always love her too. I'm getting ready in a few minutes to go downstairs and write her a little, just like you did to your Mom not so long ago. I'll write it by hand, but can't bring myself to use my left hand as you did. Debbie's working on your quilt and it's shaping up wonderfully. Stephen's hard at work on his latest successful project, and I'm busy learning lessons, every day. I love you,
Jim