One For Papa

I'm sorry that I havn't posted in a while. Things got crazy with Christmas and all, and then, my grandfather died on New Year's Eve. Tough way to start a new year indeed!

My Grandfather did not have tear ducts, so he could not cry. You could tell, however, when he was getting emotional. I never saw it really, except for a rare time or two. Once was when my cousin, Buddy committed suicide in 1998. That was and still is tough on all of us. The last time I witnessed it however, the emotions were not sadness, but joy. I had just finished a concert with the Elon Wind Ensemble, and my family came back to see me. I believe it was the spring concert in May of 2001. As I came out of the practice room after packing away Tigershark, my family met me there and we exchanged hugs as usual. My family was so proud of me. As normal, my mom was in tears and my dad had a smile on his face. But this time, Papa was all red in the face and couldn't say anything. Later, someone in the family told me that he was so proud of me, and that he was just choked up in emotion. I'll always remember how proud of me he was that night.

A few years later, he gave me the money to go to seminary. I know he was the deciding factor in the debate between my grandmother and himself. He made it happen. I always felt like I let him down some when I didn't finish that degree. So, I told him on his death bed that he would proud of me yet. I told him the grand plan and how I would go back to school and become a music teacher and play my trombone better than ever. I also told him that I would probably be joining a National Guard band soon, and in doing so would serve my country through music. (Papa served in the Army)

For the funeral service, Meme (My grandmother) asked me to play a piece as Papa was taken out of the church. Since it was a military funeral, she wanted something to fit. After researching army funeral ceremonies, I eventually found that playing "Onward Christian Soldiers" would be a good fit. I played it best I could for Papa, and for Meme, and for Mom, and everyone else in my family. Without a doubt, that song was for Papa. I hope he enjoyed it.