Day 1255

This morning, we said a final farewell to our dear ‘Harmonica Man’ down at Fort Snelling. With jets soaring over us and white grave markers as far as the eye could see, we heard Taps, a rifle salute and accepted this goodbye… all on a very personal level. That man was so beloved.

Of course, as closure surrounded us and we tried to memorize the moment, it occurred to me that this was it. No more harmonica songs, no more WW2 stories, no more Life Lessons, no more sharing the words, “I love you,” and yet, through the tears a calm set in.

I realized that those stories are imbedded in my mind, “You Are My Sunshine” will forever remind me of him and the Life Lessons are part of who I am. He touched so many lives…certainly mine.

So, we go on and follow our Harmonica Man’s lead to live life with a kind hearts. We also embrace the beautiful human connections he provided between those who loved him. He didn’t really leave us alone at all. Between memories, lessons and new friends (like family), he is still present.