eidolon

Today, the reflection of my life that greets me in the mirror is a little too vivid. Those days happen. I'm really feeling for my mom today, because, for her, its not just Mother's Day. Today is also my dad's birthday. Every other year, that has been a day for relaxation, decadence and merriment. This year, things are different because my dad died suddenly last July. No drama, just death. Sometimes, thats just how it goes. He would have been 59.

The nice thing about today, and I hope that my mother is feeling this, too, is that his presence is very strong right now as warm memories and the realization of how lucky I am to have had a father like mine. With him or without him, I am, without question, one of the lucky ones. His influence on my life is apparent at every turn, from speech patterns and physical mannerisms to spending a life involved in all of the music, art, horsepower and culture possible.

The more I think about it, the less I really have to say. I'm looking foreward to treating my mom to some of the finest sushi in the city tonight. No question its going to be bittersweet, but, all things considered, I'll take bittersweet. I've become accustomed to it, lately. Its just been one of those years, all the way 'round.

Tonight, I'll raise a glass with joy in my heart, shed a tear, and give thanks for the wisest, most loving parents anyone could ever envision - on this plane or any other.

Happy Birthday, Dad.
I love you.