I love flying into Oakland, California. On approach, the plane glides over San Francisco Bay, slowly getting lower and lower until it seems it will surely dip a wheel into the water, and as it lands, it appears to touch the earth. It is enchanting. I never tire of watching the drama unfold from my tiny window, though I admit a small knot of worry forms every time.
Beth, many aspects of your story reminds me of when Heather’s dad, Jack, was still alive. The challenges of caring for the very elderly exist even in small things (“very” is intended to exclude those of us who are over 50 but don’t feel so old - yet). I applaud your effort and love for your dad. I have been seeing my parents more regularly- they are in their lower to mid-80s. I definitely get many aspects of your story.
I think your writing in long-form narratives give richness to real life. Too many things are pushing short form and ignore many textures of life in favor of Tweets or simply texts. The efforts to overly glamorize harder aspects of life also suggests that those aspects must be hidden. For that reason often the elderly feel they must stay hidden. However, they are capable of love, joy, institutional knowledge and history. I think they should be valued as you exemplified. You bring them forward for celebration and a bit of empathy. We all will be in their boat soon enough. May those who come after us show similar patience and love.
I know I'm a bit late in reading this. I didn't realize how behind I was until today when I saw an email that you made a new post. As I wipe the tears your beautiful words brought to my eyes, all I can say is thank you. Thank you for all that you do for the family and thank you for making that trip happen. I am so very grateful to have been given the chance to see Papa Tom and Uncle Ted. I cherish any chance I have to be able to spend with family.
Beth this so reminds me of the last few years with my mother. I wish she could have traveled but was on dialysis so stopped traveling around 2010 . Your a beautiful soul and daughter and Gods Word tells us when we honor our parents our days will be long.... I love Letters from a Plus-aged Person.
Beth Broderick, I will (started to say, "I can't tell you how wonderful...) tell you with great joy how wonderful it is to read this fine story of you and your Dad, your Family too but most wonderfully your time with your Dad. My Dad and I had an interesting dynamic. In spite of his drinking, we went on some great little trips together, just the two of us. We were too much alike which made for some highly traumatic encounters but I love him and miss him. Thanks so much for sharing this. It means a lot to me, Mary
Beth, many aspects of your story reminds me of when Heather’s dad, Jack, was still alive. The challenges of caring for the very elderly exist even in small things (“very” is intended to exclude those of us who are over 50 but don’t feel so old - yet). I applaud your effort and love for your dad. I have been seeing my parents more regularly- they are in their lower to mid-80s. I definitely get many aspects of your story.
I think your writing in long-form narratives give richness to real life. Too many things are pushing short form and ignore many textures of life in favor of Tweets or simply texts. The efforts to overly glamorize harder aspects of life also suggests that those aspects must be hidden. For that reason often the elderly feel they must stay hidden. However, they are capable of love, joy, institutional knowledge and history. I think they should be valued as you exemplified. You bring them forward for celebration and a bit of empathy. We all will be in their boat soon enough. May those who come after us show similar patience and love.
Just wonderful! What a terrific writer you are!!
God bless you and your family. Having lost both of my parents within the past 3 years I can't help but understand the journey you're on.
Oh Beth, what a wonderful story!! And what a beautiful angel you are you your Dad! I just love this.
I know I'm a bit late in reading this. I didn't realize how behind I was until today when I saw an email that you made a new post. As I wipe the tears your beautiful words brought to my eyes, all I can say is thank you. Thank you for all that you do for the family and thank you for making that trip happen. I am so very grateful to have been given the chance to see Papa Tom and Uncle Ted. I cherish any chance I have to be able to spend with family.
Beth this so reminds me of the last few years with my mother. I wish she could have traveled but was on dialysis so stopped traveling around 2010 . Your a beautiful soul and daughter and Gods Word tells us when we honor our parents our days will be long.... I love Letters from a Plus-aged Person.
I loved this. Tried to write more but it all got erased somehow Thanks, Mary Matvy
Beth Broderick, I will (started to say, "I can't tell you how wonderful...) tell you with great joy how wonderful it is to read this fine story of you and your Dad, your Family too but most wonderfully your time with your Dad. My Dad and I had an interesting dynamic. In spite of his drinking, we went on some great little trips together, just the two of us. We were too much alike which made for some highly traumatic encounters but I love him and miss him. Thanks so much for sharing this. It means a lot to me, Mary