Two years ago today, my sweet daddy gained his angel wings. He’s been front of mind and heart lately, especially with memories of that day.
And, just as much, I’ve been thinking of him as the 47th POTUS unleashes more bullying and hate with Project 2025, exactly as promised. Dad called it eight years ago, the morning after 47 first became 45.
“Hey, Dad,” I said with a forehead kiss and puffy eyes from watching voting results late the night before. After a warm hug, I sat down next to him at our kitchen table and shared the results. I didn’t even try to hide the huge sigh that escaped from my whole being.
Dad shook his head, as his teaspoon dug a bit deeper into the sugar bowl. Stirring one scoop of extra sweetness into his coffee, he reflected, “You’re kidding me. That man will turn this country back 50 years or more. Lord, have mercy.”
All I could offer was a sincere “Amen, Daddy” before he began another walk down memory lane.
He began retelling familiar stories of what he endured as a young officer in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. How he was the only Black officer in his battalion in Germany. How he served with dignity and self-respect, despite racial slurs and unequal treatment. How he later refused to move to the back of the segregated bus in Virginia, traveling home in his Army uniform. And more. So much more.
Dad’s stories always humbled and inspired me, and they still do. I cherish them all, especially the ones I captured in his own voice on audio and video. They’re gold for my mind and heart.
And, Dad isn’t the only one. I find inspiration in the lives of all our family’s ancestors. Their journeys are beautiful examples of faith, courage, and grace under fire. I often look to their life stories for encouragement to keep pressing forward when life brings its hard parts. Their spirits could have been crushed under the weight of all they endured, but never did.
Today, I can envision them watching us all from Heaven, shaking their angelic heads as division and chaos abound here on Earth. Also like them, I trust God is still in control – even when it appears that the enemy of our souls is winning. And, over the next four years and beyond, I will look again and again and again to faith, courage, and grace – gifts from my ancestors – to run this race.
Weigh In: Where will you look again for inspiration in the days ahead?
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