He has fought the good fight; he has finished the race

Dear Daddy,

Guess what? Tucker and I did our race! After 3 months of training, we made it to the finish line. It was truly amazing being able to distract myself with this goal. I don’t know if I could have survived the winter without looking forward to this very weekend, when we would run our race on Saturday and spread your ashes on Sunday. Little did I know that during this time I would also be going through a career transition, closing one chapter and beginning another one here in Atlanta, literally tomorrow. And even though I’m very tired, I am especially pleased to follow in your footsteps as a project manager. I know how much your career meant to you.

I thought today would feel worse, but it really hasn’t. After four long months, we did what you asked. You are finally at peace, so I am also at peace. I can’t wait to see you again soon, and I am thrilled that every time I visit my true home, Beaufort, I will get to see you.

This spring, may you intertwine with the threads of the fresh marsh grass; may you rise and fall with the tides. You will greet your friends when they visit, gently rocking their boats in the wind. You will keep up your favorite pastime of feeding the birds; the pelicans will enjoy your brine. As you pass on your gifts to the next generation, you’ll have to get used to posing for the local photographers; they will love you! So will the woodworkers, as they create magic from your driftwood. You’ll ebb and you’ll flow, Daddy, you’ll sparkle and shine. You will enjoy all the sunny days for the rest of eternity, and I don’t know anyone who wouldn’t envy that. You are now one with nature and I can’t wait to go swimming with you this summer, and every summer for the rest of my life. One day, if I’m lucky enough, I’ll live right next to you again. But until then, Daddy, I’ve got work to do, and you’re the one that taught me to do it. So, thanks for passing on the torch. Cheers to you.

Love, Sammy