A year ago today we lost someone really special. I always knew he was special to me, because some of my favorite childhood memories involved him, but it really hit me just how special he was, when I went to his celebration of life last year at his restaurant in Halifax. It was packed from teenagers to grandparents, all of which had a story to tell about my uncle. I cannot even describe to you the emotions I felt walking through his restaurant, talking to complete strangers who worked for him, were friends with him, or even those who only met him a handful of times. To have someone come up to you and tell you your uncle was a real legend in this town, it really made me realize that how I felt about him, the 300+ people in the bar felt the same, and that feeling is quite indescribable. It really was a celebration of his life, and he wouldn't have wanted it any other way.
My uncle David lived in Halifax for many years before his death, and therefore like anybody who lives long distance, you tend to lose touch. When someone passes, you often think of the things you wish you did, or said more, and I have to say I had a really hard time with his death because I wish I had known him better as an adult. Over the years when I'd seen him on holidays or random check ins (he was notorious for that) I realized that a lot of my personal traits had come from him. So instead of beating myself up for not being as close to him as I should have, I take with me that he'll always be a part of me.
Love you - wish I could have said it more. xo
1944-2011
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