Now that Al is gone, it is different getting used to being home with just Parker. I sure miss Al, but it brings me great joy to know that he is in a better place where he can be with his wife.
I remember the first time I met Al. I was rollerblading past his home. He asked, "Where are your elbow pads?" I stopped and chatted with him for a while and told him I would stop by again. I started visiting him regularly. I listened as he talked so lovingly of his wife and my heart ached for him. We would often go for walks around the neighborhood and I would try to stop by and make dinner with/for him on Sundays. He was always such a gentleman. I remember one evening when I was at his house I went to leave and it was dark outside. I only lived three houses down, but he insisted on walking me home. He hobbled along the cracked and bumpy sidewalk with his cane until we got close to my place, and then he watched me walk into my apartment complex. I went out the other side of the complex and watched him walk home to make sure he was safe. I cried as I watched how much effort it took for him to do this small act of kindness.
I think back now at how blessed my life has been just to know Al. He was a great example to me, my husband and our little boy, Parker. He did so much for us, but mostly he helped us to want to be just a little more kind, a little more gentle and to find humor in all we do. Even in his last few weeks, when he was confined to his bed, he always thanked me for being there and taking care of him. There is no way I would have had it any other way.
Late one evening as I got him ready for bed. I had given him his medicine and gotten him some fresh water. I was raising the head of his bed a little to get him comfortable for the night and I noticed a smile on his face.
I said, "Al it looks like there is a smile on your face. Why are you smiling?"
He replied, "Because I am looking at you."
He wasn't happy lying there in his bed all day, but he found ways to bring a smile to those around him. I sure will miss my friend.
4 comments:
This is a good looking blog and a wonderful post. Al was lucky to have you guys around too. What a cool experience for you. Laura you look great and your kid is cute too. Love the pictures.
Laura, I enjoyed your post. It made my tear up but I am glad that you met Al and that he was such a goodfriend and a blessing in your lives. Now...show me how to dot his blog thingy.
Love you, Kristin
Hi, Laura! You're amazing and Parker is adorable. He must be nearly a year or so? Congrats on law school. Would you have ever thought back in the dorms that you would be married with a kid still at BYU 10 years later?:) I'm jealous. Take care.
Meredith
Oh laura... i am a wreck after reading this. you are such a good woman... You will be blessed for the things you did for Al. We miss you guys!
Post a Comment