Stacey: Dad, you should read some of the facebook messages my students sent me.
Dad: Oh?
Stacey: Yeah – I am flattered. But humbled.
Dad: Did you kick these kids out of class?
Stacey: Maybe. But they came around.
Dad: So – what do you suppose made the difference?
Stacey: Faith. I had faith in them – like you and Mom had faith in me. Dad, everyone needs a cheer-leader.
Dad: I hope your Mother and I were your cheer-leaders.
Stacey: Seriously, Dad? Anything I wanted to do – you supported… eventually.
Dad: Your mother was much better at it than I was…
Stacey: She was a softer sell, Dad. You had to hold the purse strings and I had an expensive diet!
Dad: You sure did! And your mother was often upset that I didn’t let you do more.
Stacey: I think you taught me the reality of life, though, Dad. Sometimes it was good that you said, “no”.
Dad: Your mother didn’t think so.
Stacey: No, but if you didn’t say no I would have had to support you in your old age – and as it turns out – you remained very independent.
Dad: Well, I tried.
Stacey: Dad, I really appreciate that you were never a burden to me. You were wise beyond your years – grin –
Dad: How do your students manage without parents?
Stacey: They adopt me – and essentially because I have you – they adopt you too. They love it when you come to speak – or attend on Remembrance Day, Dad. They missed Mom this year – – and I guess you won’t be here this year either.
Dad: Well, no. But, Stacey, you know what to do.
Stacey: I have lots of stories to tell, Dad. Maybe I’ll tell one or two of your stories.
Dad: Do you think they’ll fall asleep?
Stacey: Dad! Of course not – unless it’s a story that I wrote on your behalf.
Dad: Well, in any case, as much as I like talking to you – you need to go.. and get ready for tomorrow.
Stacey: I’m ready. I was born ready, Dad.
Dad: Ha – Will you sleep?
Stacey: No. But that’s okay – I’ll sleep tomorrow night.
Dad: What are you worried about?
Stacey: I don’t know. It’s just different this year. You aren’t here.
Dad: Stacey – I’m here. You can talk to me any time you like.
Stacey: Dad, people will think I’m crazy.
Dad: So?
Stacey: So – – well, I guess I’m talking to you now…
Dad: Good luck tomorrow, Stacey. TTFN
Stacey: TTFN, Dad. I’ll be thinking of you, tomorrow.
Dad: And I’ll be thinking of you. Love you, Stace.
Stacey: Love you too, Dad.
TTFN