Nancy Stoops and Midnight

By Nancy Stoops

Dear Dad:  I’m writing to tell you about some things that have really changed this year.   I will always miss you and my brothers, but I have so very much in my wonderful life to be grateful for.

Mom is still here with me and I’m very grateful for her.  You picked a good mom for me, and I thank you.

I have this amazing son that I couldn’t be prouder of.  He has turned out to be quite a terrific young man.  If I could have hand-molded a son, I couldn’t have done any better than what I already have; I couldn’t ask for a better son.

I have a husband that would go to the ends of the earth to make me happy.

My best friend is my dog, Midnight.  He is such a blessing!  I honestly believe you sent him to me. He is so healing for me.

Oh, and my business has grown into something I could have only dreamt about.  I think you’d be amazed by how well things are going.

While I will always miss you, I have this new sense of peace around Father’s Day; I feel like everything is going to be alright.  I feel like I can breathe and that it’s okay for me to get on with my life.  I know you and the boys would want that for me.

I think this is how I honor your memory – by just being the best I know how to be.  So I will continue to do my best to make you proud of me.

I thank you for all that you gave me during your lifetime, and I am truly honored to be your daughter. I’m grateful for all the years that I did have you with me on Father’s Day!

This article was written by Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T.  Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.  She has a private practice in Diamond Bar and is currently accepting new clients; she is also a motivational speaker who can inspire your employees or group members.  Nancy runs free family support groups, including a group on loss for seniors, and groups on how to manage anger. For more information about any of these services feel free to contact her at (909) 229-0727, or via email at nancyjstoops@verizon.net.  Nancy’s books, “Midnight the Therapy Dog,” and “Live, Heal and Grow,” are available at Amazon.com.