Angelversary

Reese Engle

I first heard this term a few years ago. From other grieving parents, probably on one of the grief sites, I frequent- maybe GRASP. Anyway, it doesn’t really matter where I heard it, it matters to me that it gave me comfort, I like the idea of Reese getting his “Angel Wings”. I like the idea that he no longer is in pain, Reese will no longer suffer- those of us here that love him do enough of that. Life hurts… Death doesn’t hurt, except for those of us who are living. My son will not experience the measuring of success we normally think of. College graduation, good job, wife, kids (Reese would have been a fantastic father), material possessions, grandchildren, etc. All of the examples we normally associate with success, and then we pass- only to leave a legacy (if we are lucky enough to have a family). Eventually, we are but a memory, the nice old grandpa, who always had a smile.

My point being, although we seem to equate “stuff” with success. Since Reese’s “Angel Day”, I’ve had a lot of time to contemplate about what is important to me. I’ve come to the conclusion that life BEFORE death is to be cherished, not to be taken lightly or for granted. The impact one can make will certainly be important to our legacy, however, the most important factor I can see, is that I need to be aware of who I am, what my situation is and how can I help understand/alleviate the suffering of “life” in others. That, I believe, is how to be a success. I’ve worked a program of recovery for years before I came to that realisation. It wasn’t until Reese’s death that I could be thrust into a place of understanding. My beautiful first born son taught me this. Reese’s zeal for living, his passion for others never ceases to amaze me. I can only pray I can help carry THAT message to others. Reese has been my best teacher, and for that, I am grateful.

“Angelversary” is a term, Reese’s teaching has become a way of life. I will honour you, Reese, on this day and all the days till we meet again. I love you, Reese.

Always – Dad

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