Monday, December 22, 2008

Remembering

Six years ago today I was in Naperville, IL a western suburb of Chicago, my companion was Elder Dixon. We were laughing while drinking hot chocolate excited by the presents under our tiny one foot tree. The phone rang and I answered. It was the Mission President, he had talked to my family and my Grandpa Dorff had passed away.

It was back in August of 2002, that I sat alone with my grandfather and his wheelchair and oxygen tank. My grandpa told me how proud he was of me for wanting to serve, for putting the lord first and to make these years count. We both knew he probably wouldn't see me come home in two years. As we hugged I said I loved him, and said he loved me too.

I know it's ok to miss him, but there is so much more I would tell him. All about Christy and little Parker, how I'm doing in school and what I'm trying to become. I'd tell him all about my mission and ask him if he wanted to weed the garden and just talk. While I know this would all be very special to me, I'd just like it if I could say one more time... I love him, and he'd say he loved me too.

7 comments:

Christy said...

I'm sad I never got to meet him before he left. I'm sure he's proud of you though! I know I am.

April Hardy said...

Way to make a pregnant lady cry! Thanks!

Cindy Ardis said...

That is a wonderful message. Thanks for sharing that very personal moment with us. There is no doubt in my mind that your grandpa is aware of what you are doing and your great little family.
What a wonderful memory you have to share with Parker, you were very forturnate to have such a close relationship with your grandpa.

Kristine said...

April, I was thinking the same thing. This blog should have had a disclaimer warning pregnant women that they may suddenly burst in tears.

Mark, thank you for sharing these memories with everyone. Merry Christmas to you and your family. Be safe and take care!!

Brent :) said...

I think that he is happy that you served the church. :)

amee sorensen said...

I'm about to cry and I'm not even pregnant! Thanks Mark!
What a great memory you have of your grandpa.

Lorinda said...

A very nice tribute to Grandpa, Mark! He would be very proud of you and the way you are conducting your life and caring for your family.