One year ago today, my parents joined our family for a vacation in Hawaii. My parents had never been to Hawaii and Vicki and I make an annual vacation here so we really wanted them to have the experience.
About a year and a half ago, I had an intuitive impression that now was the time for Vicki and me to get our kids, granddaughters and parents all to Hawaii for a vacation together. I wanted us all to have that experience together and wondered if it would be our last chance to pull that off with everyone. So we cashed in a lot of frequent flyer miles and went for it. At first my father thought it might be better for them to wait until a later time but my mother worked him over and he quickly relented.
Vicki and I got here on Wednesday of Super Bowl week last year and both sets of our parents arrived, one year ago today on Super Bowl Friday. The Monday after the Super Bowl all of our kids and granddaughters arrived. We had an amazing time hanging out at the beach, eating fresh caught fish, driving to the North Shore and around the island, but most of all, just being together in this tropical paradise.
Unfortunately, my intuitive hunch proved to be too true when my father unexpectantly passed away in August. The last couple days here in Hawaii have been bittersweet thinking about last year. I remember them arriving at the hotel one year ago tonight excited about being here. I remember the funny things that happened. I remember how somber my father was while visiting Pearl Harbor.
Being here reminds me of how hard it is to come to grips with the reality that my dear father is dead and no longer around.
Below is my favorite pictures from last year. I especially like this because I took it after we had made an all day trip around the island and just barely made it to a wonderful point on the island for a spectacular sunset. This picture is such a great symbo of my father’s life. We miss him and long for the day when resurrection puts the final explanation point on the promise given to us by Jesus Christ through his resurrection.
Thanks for your post Mike...you have inspired me to push my Parents (who also have never been to Hawaii) to join us the next time we go! Thanks also to my wife, Lesley, for taking the time to send me the link and suggest that I look at it. Enjoyed meeting you last weekend Mike and thank you for all that you do for those less fortunate then we are! God bless you buddy!
Posted by: kevin heller | January 31, 2014 at 09:17 PM
Thank you for your kind words Kevin. I loved hanging with you. Loved your energy and encouragement.
Posted by: Mike King | January 31, 2014 at 09:39 PM
Just read your beautiful post about your dad! Sitting in the sacred space prayer room praying for you ! Allow the new sunsets to keep reminding you of the fun & beauty that your dad shared w everyone and let the rain share your tears. Love to your whole family.
Posted by: Lilly Lewin | February 01, 2014 at 05:08 PM
Beautiful reflection. Praying for you, friend.
Posted by: Kara | February 01, 2014 at 05:13 PM