I am so sorry. This is beautiful. You are in my thoughts tonight and for all the days to come.

No words. Very sorry.

So sorry. Prayers sent your way.

After reading this, I wanted to read the eulogy. The last verse is powerful . . . words slipping through your eyes . . . When you can, think of what he would want you to do.

I agree...last verse very powerful. All Best to you. (r.)

So sorry. A lovely, perceptive poem.

A lot of hugs to you and yours.

I am so sorry. Beautifully written.

I don't know if I will be able to express myself quite so beautifully as you did when my time comes to mourn a parent.

I am so sorry for your loss.

Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal.

Take care.

So sorry. I wish there was something I could do.

So sorry. Such beautiful words and picture.

Having been on this journey with you, my heart is heavy reading this news. The role of caregiver often defines us and I feel great sadness that you still feel responsible to comfort and reassure others in your own very personal time of loss and grief. I understand this all too well. But ot's okay to own and share your pain, Linda and this post is a good first step. It's time now for others to tend to you for having been so selfless in taking care of your father. And it's time to rebuild your strength and take care of yourself. I'm sorry for your loss. He loved you dearly, I know. You did God's work here on earth by being his angel. Sending you love, hugs and a shoulder if you need it.

Your powerful words bring us to tears as well. Very well done. Deep condolences, and hugs.

i'm terribly sorry that he's gone and for all the pain you feel. it's been a long, difficult time. i'm sure he would have loved your poem.

My sincere sympathies.
R

In our thoughts. May he rest in peace.

I join the others in their comments and affirmations. Beautifully written at a sad time. Eleanor Roosevelt once wrote about how death changes us forever - not for the worst or anything- just forever. Our path takes a turn at this point and leads in a different direction. My prayers are with you.

You know, I'm sure, it's ok to feel.

Sending you good thoughts and prayers, and know that he knew you loved him.

"...and my mask smiled back..."
It's such a heavy burden to wear that mask. I hope baring yourself here has helped lift that weight.
My sincere condolences.

I shed a tear or two reading this and could practically see your dad smiling. I can only imagine the pain and loss you are feeling. Your love for your dad shines through everything you've written since I've known you on OS and reveals your fine character. As cartouche said, you need to focus on yourself now and ask for help if you need it. You've fought a lonely battle that your dad was surely proud of. It's time to let go. I am also here for you if you need me. Just let me know. *hugs*

Bless you and yours. There are no words. But you found just the ones to express what you feel. Take good care in this time of sorrow. Celebrate the love...

Thank you so much, to everyone. It's easy to bury myself in work. Not so easy to face the feelings when I turn my brain off work.

Harriet, I may post the eulogy when I'm dealing better. It would be nice to share some of the memories in it. Not sure I can just yet, but perhaps one day.

Cartouche, thank you. For this, and for all the times you lent an ear along the way. Caregiving, I'm good at. Being tended to, that's unfamiliar territory for me.

Grif, you're so right. Not for better or worse, just forever.

Bill, thanks. And for the PMs along the way back when, too.

OM - had to smile that you picked up on the mask part. You're right, it is heavy.

Emma - thank you so much. You, too, have always lent an ear and I appreciate it more than you know. It's rougher than I'd thought it would be. In time, I guess.

Bonnie -- thank you for what you PMd. I will take you up on that when I think I can. Still kind of raw.

Read and admired.

I am very sorry for your loss.

You did well - you did real well.
Holding on now, hold on. You did real well.

Sending thoughts and prayers your way....Blessings too

At moments like this, I can only be harmless, not helpful. And I can at least acknowledge that you are a beautiful poet and a beautiful soul.

Beautiful, just beautiful. R-

Sending warm thoughts of support your way...so sorry for your loss...

mLee & Divorce Bard - thanks for visiting and kind comments.

Mark - it's it true. We lost Dad's cousin this week. She was my godmother.

Kim - sometimes, it comes down to hanging in there, true enough.

Anne - thank you for your thoughts and prayers.

Matthew - thank you for saying that. There are times when finding words is so hard.

Dave - thank you. And for including me in your list, too. Keep up the great work there.

darkside - thanks. Hope you're doing well these days.

These are the words and a wonderful tribute.

Oh, Linda, YOU are the good daughter. There will be jewels in your crown in heaven. I know your father is very proud of you. Love and hugs every day.

This birth we call death is so very hard- but bearable if we have hope of future togetherness.