Hit Hard

This picture stopped me in my tracks today. My Aunt Toni Beideman sent it over, one of the last photos ever taken of my dad. I’ll be honest seeing it hit me hard. There’s something about a final image that carries a weight no other picture can. It’s not just a face, it’s the last chapter of a whole story. A story filled with laughter, stubbornness, lessons, and love.

This picture isn’t polished. His hair’s a little messy, his body tired. But that’s him. That’s my dad. Even here, he’s looking straight at the camera with those same eyes that saw me grow from a boy into a man. The same eyes that taught me, without words, how to be strong even when you’re not feeling strong.

Grief doesn’t fade it just changes shape. And today, this picture brought all those memories and emotions rushing back. I miss you, Dad. Every day. I’ll carry you with me in every meal I cook, every lesson I pass down, every moment I stand tall. Until we meet again.