Father’s day
I miss my Dad
Travel restrictions have made living on the opposite side of the country to most of my extended family members even more difficult. I was very fortunate to be able to visit my Dad in April this year, but he hasn’t been able to visit us for over 2 years. I miss my Dad.
For those who have met my Dad in the last few years, it’s difficult to explain, but he’s not the Dad I knew when I was younger. Let me tell you part of this story.
In my growing up years, Dad was always my biggest cheerleader, always there for me when I really needed him. But somehow I felt like I didn’t really know him, like much of the time he was there, but not really there. For as long as I can remember, Dad had a ‘bad back’- barely functional, laying down whenever possible, with hot water bottles on his back. I didn’t understand the side effects of the heavy pain medications he was on.
About 5 years ago, Dad attended a pain management clinic and started to learn alternative ways to manage his chronic pain. Over the next year he was able to come off the heavy pain meds. Dad started doing things I had never seen him do, and being more active than I ever remember him being. I felt like I could start to get to know the real Dad. It was such an encouragement to me to see him making positive changes in his life. It helped me to see that change really is possible. You can read more of my Dad’s story here: https://www.larsavemarie.com/the-lived-experience-of-pain-trevor-barker
This Father’s Day, I attended my talented friend Tenielle’s concert. (You can check out her music here: https://linktr.ee/tenielleneda) Last time Tenielle did a live show, Dad happened to be staying with us, and came with me. This time the show was wonderful, but I couldn’t help thinking of my Dad, and wishing he was there with me.
I miss my Dad, but I’m glad I know him now, and I’m so glad to see him living life to the full.