Tribute

This past Saturday, my wife and other family members attended a celebration of life for my brother-in-law who passed away about one year after his wife, my sister Mary. It was a small gathering of friends and family, and I’ve been thinking about it ever since.

Three of his children, now grown ups and successful in their own right, spoke. They spoke of lessons learned: driving, getting through college and the military, setting goals and following through on them. They spoke of his laughter, his pranks, his determination. 

There were stories that brought tears and laughter. While there was obvious sadness and pain, there was also a thankfulness and joy. Much of the reminiscing was joyful. 

Through it all and ever since that day, I’ve been thinking about what my two daughters might say about me upon my passing. 

In 2014, at our son’s celebration of life, Hannah spoke about the lessons she learned from Wil. She made us laugh as much as she made us weep. Emily chose not to speak, but instead, found a beautiful poem that was read by the celebrant. I talked about living your life- not someone else’s life, not someone else’s dream of a life, but living your life. And with it, making a positive difference in the lives of others. 

But what might Hannah and Emily say about me? What kind of impact- if any- did I have on them? 

It’s important for them to know that I love them fiercely and would head into a fire barefoot if it would benefit them. It’s important for them to know that I’d fight the toughest hombre with bare hands if I could protect them. 

But would they feel that way about me? Did they, would they, recognize that in me- in my words and in my actions? What adjectives might they use to describe me? Hopefully positive ones, meaningful ones.

And as I reflected on that celebration of life and on my upcoming celebration of life whenever it occurs, it occurred to me that if I have doubts about how they see me and how they might remember me, perhaps I need to make sure from this minute forward, that the life I lead, the words I choose, are positive, and loving, and ones that build up, rather than negative and hateful words, and actions that tear down. 

Do I need to change my life, my words, my thoughts, to reflect what is in my heart or am I good to go- in all that those three words imply? Because if not, I need to change now before it is too late. Something to think about … 

Live Your Life, and Make A Difference! 

For My Readers: 

If you like what you’re reading and find a benefit from it, you can check out my other posts on my Website at https://www.jrlewisauthor.com under the Inspirational Blog tab. You can find all nine books, their descriptions, and links for purchase at the same site. 

Pleases Connect with Me on Social Media: 

Website https://www.jrlewisauthor.com

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557592103627

Author Blog https://www.jrlewisauthor.blog

TikTok @josephlewis5566  

Tribal @jrauthor85  

Substack https://tinyurl.com/2m5ckdvh  

Black Yéʼii (The Evil One) is available for preorder NOW and ONLY at https://www.blackrosewriting.com/mystery/blackyeii If you purchase Black Yéʼii (The Evil One) prior to the publication date of January 2, 2025, use the promo code: PREORDER2024 to receive a 15% discount. 

 

For those of you who are interested in receiving a signed copy of Black Yéʼii (The Evil One) or any of my other books, I will have author copies to sell and sign at the Following Upcoming Events: 

Fredericksburg Independent Book Festival on Saturday, Oct. 12 from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Riverside Park, 701 Sophia St, Fredericksburg, Virginia. 

Porter Branch Library on Saturday, Nov. 9 from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM at 2001 Parkway Blvd. Stafford, Virginia. 

Salem Church Library on Saturday, Dec. 7 from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM at 2607 Salem Church Rd. Fredericksburg, Virginia.

Howell Branch Library on Saturday, Dec. 14 from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM at 806 Lyons Blvd. Fredericksburg, Virginia.

Or, simply message me and I will get a signed copy to you. 

Intro Photo by Demure Storyteller and Unsplash

Book Cover Photo by David King and Black Rose Writing