Speak YOUR
Mind
By RICK ALLEN
y dad was , in one sense , a man of few words . His words were well chosen
M and spoken with a tone of confidence that literally dared you to challenge him . While everyone might not agree with him completely on a particular subject , it was hard to say that he was totally wrong because he whole-heartedly believed in his position .
When my dad died in 1995 , as a family , we had no doubt what the appropriate things to do were in planning his funeral and burial . His professional demeanor and desire to be well-dressed led us to select his best dark colored suit , white shirt , and a bold tie . His love of God and care and concern for his friends and colleagues made it right and fitting to hold his funeral at his church . His planning in advance and selecting the exact spot near a beautiful , large magnolia tree in the local cemetery where he and my mother would ultimately be laid side by side eliminated the need for discussion regarding this final disposition .
As I sat in the pew , deep in my own grief , I could not have been more proud of my dad . The words spoken by the pastor , a man who knew my dad so well , recalled experiences they had shared and words of encouragement and guidance that my dad had offered during difficult times . The song sung by the vocalist reflected a life lived by serving others . Finally , after the prayer at the cemetery , the bright , blue , crisp December sky swallowed up the colorful balloons we all released with our personal notes of “ Good-Bye ” attached . In spite of how difficult and sad the that occasion was for me and my family , looking back , I now feel so happy and proud that because we knew our dad so well and understood his attitudes , creating a meaningful and appropriate tribute to his life came naturally . While writing this article , I have stopped on two occasions to take phone calls from people who are currently dealing with family members who are terminally ill and near death . Both families are just now beginning their search for information about funeral options and cost . Neither caller had discussed the subject with their family member who was ill , and unfortunately , “ last minute ” talks along that line can be extremely difficult and uncomfortable . So , as always , be sure family members know where you stand on important issues .
As I close this issue ’ s article , I would like to offer a word of exceeding thanks to all of our military men and women who are courageously serving our country around the world . Additionally , I want to thank all of those who have previously served as well .
COLLIN COUNTY • 43