A hero’s goodbye

Woman’s World reader Jennifer Watts was heartbroken after losing her father-in-law. Then, while out on a walk with her daughter, they spotted a sign that brought them both comfort. She writes:

My father-in-law, Joe, whom I also called “Dad,” was an awesome man. And he was a true hero. Dad was a New York City fire department captain. Everyone loved Captain Joe. When 9/11 happened, Captain Joe, who was retired by then, became a pillar of support for his brothers at his firehouse, grieving for their brothers who had passed. He provided the same strength to his family. He was always there for each of us. He was a straightforward guy who only spoke the truth.

Over the past couple of months, as Dad’s health declined, he still maintained his humor and dignity. At the hospital, we showed him pictures of the family, shared memories and even got a smile out of him. When he passed away, we were all heartbroken. Yet we knew he had been in pain, so we were relieved that he was finally at peace.

A couple of days after the funeral, my daughter and I went for a walk at our local preserve. We were missing Dad dearly and prayed that he would send us a sign to let us know that he was safe in Heaven. We kept our eyes and hearts open. But the walk was desolate and dreary. As we reached the end of the trail, we

“The beautiful bird flew slow to make sure we treasured its presence!”

were both a little down, realizing we did not get a sign. Then, as we were about to leave the preserve, all of a sudden, a red cardinal flew in front of us.

My daughter and I stared in amazement. Dad had loved cardinals and believed that the presence of one after a loved one passed was a sign from them. The bird seemed to fly intentionally slow, as to make sure we treasured its presence. It was then that we knew that Dad did send us a sign and that he was okay.

The cardinal sighting brought us so much comfort, and the memory continues to give us a sense of peace!