Saying Goodbye

I accompanied my wife Karen to Detroit recently to memorialize the man without whom it would not be possible for her to be in my life.

I never met Andrew Henderson. However…the stories I heard from family and friends closest to him gave me a glimpse into the man he was..and the life he lived.

I should also mention that I see my wife’s face in his. To me, the resemblance is striking.

Andrew was an Air Force veteran. That part of his ‘homegoing’ ceremony was what stirred the emotions of all in the room. As the closest relative there, the flag…neatly folded (and pictured above)…was presented to Karen. At the end of the service…she gave that flag to her aunts and family who live in Detroit who cared for him up to the day he passed. That memorial, she said, should stay with those who provided that love and care.

I couldn’t agree more.

Instead she said she wanted to take with her a simple white blanket. No one knows the specific meaning of it to Andrew…but it was with him during many of his final days.

We know death is something we all must face. A merciful God will not let us face it alone.

Andrew was never alone.

Now with his wings, he sits on the shoulder of those who looked out for him — watching and advising. Karen tells me she hears his voice still. I don’t doubt that at all.

If I could tell Andrew anything, I would say his daughter did not marry a perfect man. However..as he watches from up in Heaven, my promise to God…and to him…is that I will do my best for her. I honor him by taking care of his little girl.

Rest well Andrew Henderson. Someday I will thank you personally for your gift to me.