Dad, you’ve been gone almost thirty years. There have been a few changes in my life since we last spoke. Wish i had time to write a more thoughtful, reflective post today…but I don’t have the time or energy after, well, being a Dad all day. Just took my own kids to the beach, and every time I do I think about Mexico or Oregon or even the quick trips we made together to trout fish in the California mountains. I make it a point to show my kids as much of the world as time and money permit, mostly because i think they will remember after I am gone.
Anyway, its a shame we can’t sit and have a conversation right now. I can honestly tell you that after 52 years, i still think you are the smartest person I’ve ever known. You were also terribly flawed as a person, and truth be told, one of those is also true of me. 
So, just a note to let you know I am thinking about you. Say hey to Mom. You guys do get the internet up there right? I’m thinkin its probably fast as hell too. Ha.
Love,
Mack
4 responses so far ↓
democommie // June 22, 2009 at 1:59 pm
Mack:
Well said. My dad’s been gone 37 years this November, and I still miss him. Of course, given his history– if he was still around–what a pain in the ass he would be to deal with.
When I was talking to my other brother’s about my brother Marty’s unexpected and sudden death, I said that if there is such a place as heaven my dad is probably up there, musing “Son-of-a-bitch, finally one of my sons shows up and wouldn’t y’know it’s Marty!”. The apple did not fall too far from the tree.
I’ll drink a little tequila in your father’s honor, next time I’m near a bar. Say, what time is it?
Mr. Mack // June 22, 2009 at 3:21 pm
FYI, Demo, I got a nice bottle put up for your next visit….
Southern Beale // June 22, 2009 at 3:55 pm
Welcome back, Mack! We missed you! Thanks for sharing your tribute to your dad.
Dads are special. I still miss mine, it will be 12 years in December.
democommie // June 22, 2009 at 6:03 pm
If you don’t already know about this website:
http://www.marriedtothesea.com/index.php
, check it out. The cartoon they ran today made me laugh pretty damned hard–I think I hurt myself!