My father's death anniversary

In 2011 my father Anthony (JR) N. Christopher died on June 25.

Twenty-two family members were there.

He had an open heart and was easily befriended.

His warmth was naturally felt even when he was feeling bad about something.

At 81 because of this enduring trait he was ageless our whole lives together for me.

I never detected anger or disappointment only sadness and worry we humans can’t escape.

His spirit wasn’t mindful. It was natural. A conveyor of warmth is innate.

I picked up the trait some loved ones have told me. It’s aspirational I’ll respond but am told it’s out of our doing.

I usually have a mass said on his death day but forgot. I’ll go at noon.

He was Catholic and died a believer.

I know this because he said things to me in those final days and on his last conscious one prayed in my mother’s presence. I know what was in his heart.

My mother sang Prayer of St. Francis to him that last day with a Catholic nun at the hospital. He also had the grace to receive the Last Rites three times. I wrote about the importance of the hymn previously.

Mentina had to call the priest back because one or another person had left the room.

Each time I was there and the priest said to all of us,

‘You are very blessed to be witness to this important moment in your father’s life.’

My mother - she died in 2015 - and I talked about it that night and many times after.

It lit a light for me.

Christophers (2002 or ‘03) taken at a wedding in Georgia.