My Father Passed and I Found His Old Journal

Apr 81 min read

Dad died three months ago and while going through his things I found a leather journal he kept for 20 years. Page after page of reflections about raising me, his mistakes, his pride in my accomplishments. There were notes about principles he wanted to live by and pass down. Some entries were about discipline, about doing the right thing even when nobody's watching. Reading it made me realize how much of him is in me and how important it is that I do the same for my boys. I'm starting my own journal tonight. This is what legacy looks like.

3 comments161 views

Comments(3)

RRob H.RegularApr 9

That's a really special thing to find. Reading through a parent's personal words after they're gone hits different. I'm sorry about your dad. Those journals are like having a conversation with him whenever you need it.

TTony M.RegularApr 10

Man, that's heavy. I can't imagine what you're going through right now. If it's tough to read, that's okay. Take your time with it. My dad and I didn't always talk about the deep stuff but I bet his journal will show you things you never got to ask about.

JJustinNew DadApr 10

Three months is still pretty fresh. Losing a parent changes everything. I think what you're holding is precious - those are his thoughts, his real thoughts. Whether you read it all at once or slowly over time, it's yours now.