42 years today

Forty-two years ago today, I was born with a head full of black hair that stuck straight up and a head that, at least according to my father, was shaped exactly like a football (thanks to the forceps used to pull me into this world).

Every birthday, my dad jokingly reminded me of my oddly-shaped newborn head. He recounted how as he gazed at me he prayed and told the Lord that he would always love me, even if my head was shaped like a football.

For forty-two years exactly, he did just that.

My father left this world this morning. I wasn’t prepared for him to go. It happened unexpectedly. But even though my heart is heavy and this is the worst birthday I can imagine, I’m grateful that I spoke to him last night and told him again I loved him … just like I always did whenever we talked on the phone, which was usually three or four times a week.

I can’t think of much else to write in this moment of the man I loved first. He was a wonderful man who loved the Lord first, my mother second, and his children and grandchildren third. (If he were here right now, he would be correcting me and stating his grandchildren and then his children! I never knew a more devoted grandfather.)

I wish my daddy didn’t have to die, and I wished he didn’t have to die today … but there is peace knowing that he is worshipping Jesus face-to-face.

Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints. ~Psalms 116:15

8 thoughts on “42 years today”

I am so sorry for your loss Paige…. Happening on your birthday is difficult and yet my husband’s mother died on our son’s 14th birthday and now it is a time of memories for him of his special grandma…. Diane

My deepest sympathy. He was a wonderful, inspirational man.

Paige,
It is such a bittersweet day; yes, he’s with Jesus, and will be missed by so many friends and family!! He was such a hospitable, engaging man with the most wonderful smile. I hurt for you, Paige. Of course, I’ll pray…what else can I do for you… 😦

I’m so sorry for your loss. I’ll keep you all in my prayers!

He loved my two girls like they were his own blood related grandchildren. He asked me if I wanted to drive his new car and then let me do it for several months everytime we came up to see him and Mrs. Kay. He shared his thoughts and advice and asked if I wanted to take a ride. I knew him for a short time and in that time I learned to respect and enjoy him as man who loved God. You will be missed James Malcolm Terry by so many. I know you see The Lord’s face and rejoice. We shed tears for your absence and sing with joy for the peace and awe that fills our hearts because we know that have touched the face of God.