As Sunny has mentioned in a previous blog, my Dad went in the hospital last week, the day before we left. He apparently had several seizures that worsened his condition and he peacefully passed away Tuesday night.
It is surreal being over here while all of this has happened and I am not going to be able to attend the funeral due to our schedule and the requirements of my presence at several legal meetings (honestly I am not sure from one meeting to the next who I am sitting in front of, I just nod and sign where they tell me). My family has been super supportive about my not being around during all of this and I am sure if Dad was able to give his two cents he would tell me to not think twice about me continuing on in this process. But still I find myself being distracted by the business at hand and even feeling great joy (we saw Tatyana this morning, Sunny will give details) and then remembering that Dad is gone and I will physically never see him again.
It's ironic that within three weeks after we adopted Summer Dad had his stroke and I remember that combination of sadness and happiness. It is hard. But I know he is dancing in heaven and he feels healthy and I hope he is pulling an all nighter with his brothers and sisters and his Mom and Dad.
Anyway, since I won't have a chance to say it publicly, I thought it might be appropriate to say on this blog how special he was. He was my teacher, my friend and I will never forget how I felt when he would hug me. I know he is proud of me and I will always love him. See ya Dad.
Steve
I am so sorry to hear that. I know he meant a lot to you and your family. Please let us know if you need anything. We will keep all of you in our prayers.
ReplyDeleteMy deepest condolences on the passing of your father. Praying for you, and the rest of the family.
ReplyDeleteKevin Coats
What a wonderful tribute to your dad. I am quite sure he is dancing in heaven...and so proud of his son who is so giving and loving. I'm sorry for your loss, Steve. You will continue to be in our prayers. We love you!!!
ReplyDeleteSteve I am very sorry to hear about your father. But as you said i am sure that he would want you to continue with the adoption process. He is dancing in heaven now! and without the stresses of this life. Love, Rhonda
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful testimonial! I can feel the love you shared with your father in your words. I am certain he is very proud of you, Sunny and Summer for all that you have and continue to do daily to bring Tatyana home. He's not only dancing in Heaven but I'm sure he's doing a little bragging!! I am very proud to know such amazing people! Take care and enjoy every moment! Vanessa
ReplyDeleteChris and I are very sorry for your loss Uncle Steve. Those were very touching words. I love you Uncle Stevie Weevie!
ReplyDeleteSteve, I am so sorry for your loss. I have to say, though, your blog was beautiful. Poetic. It made me wish I had met him. You managed to make me feel less than for not having known him! Although our existence is filled with ironic happenings such as one life ending as another life is about to begin (in a new country with a new family), he would want you to feel nothing short of joy for both circumstances. He is not only dancing in heaven but he is in the Throne Room kneeling before his savior. What's not to be excited about that?!
ReplyDeleteWe believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. - 1 Thess. 4:14
In His Love,
Serena & Michael
Dear Steve - What a tough week for you! Our thoughts and prayers are with you guys!
ReplyDeleteI suspect that your Dad is present right there with you, Sunny and Summer sharing in and quietly watching over your journey to Tatyana! : ) Mary B.
Dear Jewell Family,
ReplyDeleteI've been following your blog with such excitement and I was so saddened today when I received an email from Sunday School telling of Steve's father's passing. What a roller coaster of emotion as you expand your wonderful family yet lose a dear father. I smile as I remember when you'd tell us when you were going to miss our class, that you were taking your dad to his church and the time that you spent with him.
What a blessing to know he's in heaven with our Lord and Savior. I wish you peace and comfort as you continue on this journey.
Bootsie