Letter #11: A Deceased Person You Wish You Could Talk To

Dear Great-Grandpa,


First of all, I just want to say that I feel so lucky I even got to know you at all. You've done so much for everyone. Me, your family, your community, your country. I can't even tell you how many 100% history assignments I've gotten all because of you and the service you have done this country.


I don't think I've ever cried from sadness and happiness as much as I did when you died. Your blonde jokes that were shared. The competition of who was the favorite child, grandchild, great-grandchild (I win in that category!) when we all knew that you loved us all the same. And it is more love than anyone else has ever shared. When I saw the picture that you had of me in your wallet, I broke down and cried the rest of the day away. And every time Grandma tells me the story of how you jumped up and down like a little kid when you found out I was a girl still makes me laugh until I cry. Mostly because you were in your seventies when I was born, and that kind of energy is something everyone counted on you to have. Running out the door when we pulled into the driveway, jumping out of an airplane when you were 50 just to prove you could do it, the stories go on and on.


I truly am grateful for the blessings you gave us while you were here, and I can't wait to see you again. I love you and miss you more than you know.


LoveLoveLove,
Paige