One year ago today was a day of devastation for my family. I lost my dad very unexpectedly. He was a good man that provided for his family even long after they had grown. Always there to check on us, advise us and be there for us. He was straight forward and pulled no punches. This last year has been a roller coaster of emotions and most not good. I have spent the last year trying to heal from my own near death accident, trying to understand why God took my dad at such a young age, and my marriage struggling as I tried to juggle these emotions and try to live by my own rules. Today, a year after my dad’s death I now live by God’s rules. I know now that the only way to feel peace is to give my pain to God. It is not easy. Free will, though a gift, can sometimes be my worst enemy. I have to work hard about getting out of my own head and giving my troubles to God. I know He may not answer my prayers as fast as I like and He may not answer them the way I think He should. This is what took me so long to see the light. I feared God would not agree with me at times and I felt I knew what I wanted and what I needed. I may never understand why God took my dad home so soon but I truly believe his spirit is in a better place and that his character lives in me. I respected my dad, I loved my dad, and I was proud of my dad. And unfortunately I never expressed those sentiments with my words. Tell your loved ones how important they are. Embrace them while you can. Seek understanding so that you can experience peace as well as understanding for others as they struggle.