04.19.06
Life After Death
At the end of the fourth book in the Thursday Next series, Something Rotten, Thursday comments to the reader:
I learned from my own fathers death many years ago that the end of one’s life and dying are two very different things indeed…
So very true. I learned that tonight. My dad died 5 years ago, and I spent 4 hours with his high school classmates, learning so much about his life before me, and that his legacy will continue on long after I am gone.
Dad’s classmates helped to build a section in the library in my father’s honor. They raised a large amount of money to help the library buy books on subjects related to my father and subjects that he would have enjoyed reading about. For someone who loved books, his high school and his high school mates, it was just about the highest honor anyone could have given him.
The current principal, librarian, the student council president (cute kid - was I that young in high school??), and a host of staff members attended, along with about 30 members of the class of 1949. I cried through almost my entire 5 minute speech. I knew it was going to happen, but I didn’t even realize it was happening, until I couldn’t speak anymore. It was a wonderful event.
Thursday Next is right, death is not the same as the end of life. Dad will always be in our hearts and on the bookshelf. The end of his life will come many years after we all are gone.
Heather said,
April 19, 2006 at 9:21 pm
What a wonderful tribute to your Dad. He has such great friends…and an amazing daughter.
Pam said,
April 19, 2006 at 10:45 pm
I can’t think of a better way for your Dad to be remembered. I’m glad you got to be a part of the ceremony, it’s obvious you love your Dad a ton and were able to honor him with his friends.
Sarah HB said,
April 20, 2006 at 6:26 am
That is such a great tribute to your Dad.
He has wonderful friends and a very, very fantastic daughter.
Melanie said,
April 20, 2006 at 8:41 am
What a beautiful tribute you have made. You and your father were truly blessed to have each other.
Ashley said,
April 20, 2006 at 11:35 pm
How blessed you are to have such a great dad! It’s obvious that he made such an impact on so many people, to be celebrating him not just 5 years after he passed but in such a lasting way, and a way that will touch so many people in the years to come! What a great tribute!
kiki said,
April 22, 2006 at 4:30 pm
WOW. Thanks, Eva. And thanks to Eva’s dad. That is one amazing post, and the story goes a long way to explain why, and how, you are such a beautiful person.
Kimpossible said,
April 22, 2006 at 5:11 pm
Eva, I too started crying reading your note, and remembering your caring, fun, loving dad! From the moment one met your dad, you just knew that he was an amazing man. You were so blessed, and continue to be, to have him to guide you, inspire you, and literally run through your veins. Thinking of you and your dad fondly. Hugs!