Uncle,
I'm blessed that we got the chance to sit and talk in May last year at your home. It was the most fulfilling conversation between the two of us I can remember. One on one, we never really spoke at length that often. Our busy lives get in the way and we begrudgingly prioritize the trivial, and it is in these times we acquire perspective about what is truly important. I would have loved more opportunities for those experiences with you, but I am so very grateful of the quality time we shared that day. I promise I will do all I can not to take for granted those moments with family. Our time together was reminiscent of how important and rewarding relationships can be if we take the chance, and your passing a reminder to us all that the time to take advantage of it can be fleeting and indefinite.
We discussed a great number of things including life, health, family and of course football. The Vols are really coming into their own under Josh Heupel, and as a Bama fan I'm scared of what they are building over there! As sure as I sit here today, I KNOW you will be rooting for Tennessee from up above with the best view ever...and that makes me happier than you could know.
Seeing your face light up and your spirits soar when we talked about little Gene, Debbie and Charlie was the highlight of that day. Seeing and hearing your abiding love for them was genuine, endearing, touching. I think the world of my cousins and they are reflection of the fine job you did as a father and provider. I know you rest easy on that account.
When we were done visiting and you saw me to the door, I wrestled with how best to say goodbye. Sounds crazy now, but men aren't always so forthcoming with emotion and I didn't know how it would sound since we hadn't seen each other in so long. I didn't have to consider it very long because you beat me to the punch.... "I love you Greg". I smiled and relaxed and said "I love you Uncle" and shared one last hug. When I go to the car and was out of sight, I'm man enough to admit that cried. When I collected myself I sent a text message to Debbie letting her know how much it meant to me.
At times in life, we regret last words between friends and family, or even perhaps the things we should have said and didn't. Not this time. I couldn't have scripted a more perfect goodbye.
Rest in peace Uncle
