This week, my father passed on to his eternal reward. We have received so many kind, thoughtful, and meaningful messages from family and friends around the world. You realize at a time like this just how many lives are touched by one individual.
Even though it is my dad who died, every message references “Bark and Esther” or “Mr. and Mrs. Barker” or “your Dad and Mom”.
It is like butter on hot cornbread – you can’t separate them.
A lasting legacy of love.
So much is written about love around Valentine’s Day. Some of it is meaningful and sincere. Some is self-serving and shallow. You can tell after being around a couple for a certain period of time whether their love is genuine or fake.
They did not practice “public displays of affection.” Their love was expressed through deference to the needs and feelings of each other.
“Oh, good.” Dad replied. “She needs to rest.” Dad was struggling at the end of his life here on earth, yet his thoughts were of his wife’s health and comfort.
That creates an atmosphere of security, trust, and peace in the home. It is also the perfect environment for children to thrive.
I was blessed to grow up in a home where my parents truly loved each other.
Our home was not perfect – but my brothers and I never doubted that my parents genuinely loved each other. Our home was a secure place to live.
I am so very grateful for the legacy of love my parents have left behind.
It is worth far more than any material inheritance – it is of eternal value.
My father will be greatly missed. I pray that Phil and I and our children and grandchildren will carry on that legacy of lasting love.
This entry was posted in Being a Daughter, Being a Mom, Parenting and tagged Christian parenting, death of loved one, faith, Family, lasting love, love for spouse, Parenting, Valentine's Day.
Thank you for your prayers, Anne Marie. We have been so blessed and thankful to have known and loved Dad as long as we did. You will carry on that legacy as well.
Gayle, I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your dad. What a great legacy he leaves behind. You are on my heart!
Thank you, Katrina. I am blessed by his legacy.
What a lovely tribute! How blessed you were to be raised by such godly, loving and caring parents. And you truly are carrying on that legacy of love. You are in my thoughts and prayers during this sad time. Much love.
Thank you, Norma. We were blessed with a Godly heritage. We feel your prayers.
Thank you, Nancy. I am so thankful for the weeks I was able to spend this fall and winter with Mom and Dad. God is faithful.
I am so sorry for your loss, Gayle. I don’t know your parents, but I can see them in the person that you have always been. I love your writings and am lifted by the messages they carry. I pray for you and your family at this of sorrow and celebration.
Thank you, Roz. We can sense the prayers. We are celebrating a life well lived.
Gayle, Would you please send me your mother’s mailing address ( postal). Your family has been on my heart so much this week….
beautiful! Praying for you all. Their example gives hope to us all that a godly marriage is still possible.