Flags of our Fathers

Although my father was unable to serve in the military, he still held a deep respect and admiration of the American flag. He especially loved Memorial Day, Flag Day, July 4th and Veterans Day because those holidays were a guarantee flags would be flying anywhere and everywhere.

For Memorial Day weekend, as pictured, my sister Romey made sure the red, white and blue was flying around his gravestone area. (Thanks, sis.)

Today I was thinking of Dad for two reasons. One, obviously, was that it was Flag Day and I saw dozens of flags flying on all the fence posts near the Grand Rapids Lions Club park on the way to work. Secondly, I was thinking of him because we were at a funeral for a friend's father.

In a strange coincidence, our friend Greg's mother died the same day as my dad four years ago. In fact, we stopped at her funeral on the way Up North for my dad's visitation and service. We were both just thinking how quickly 4 years passed.

Now, his 90-year-old dad is reunited in heaven with his wife of 60+ years. When you are a young kid like Greg and me, it feels like we get cheated by so many years when we lose our parents this early. But it's only "early" for us. The death of someone who is 90 with health issues shouldn't come as a complete shock.

I have to remind myself that my mom is 85 already, the same age as Dad when he died. She just doesn't seem as old. Other than the osteoporosis that weighs down her head and neck, she seems pretty healthy. She looked great at the wedding in her fancy dress and hair salon 'do. It was a blessing to get to see her again.

Today, as the veterans waved their flags and offered their 21-gun salute at the close of the funeral, I am sure both my dad and Harvey, the new arrival, were smiling and giving reverent salute.

There are lots of traditions that shouldn't die. Respecting the flag is one. Cherishing your parents (or grandparents) while they are still here is another.