Words to my father

When you left, you left us with many questions. We'll never know if you knew about the illness, about cancer, or if things would have been different with timely help. But what we do know is that you weren't happy when you were alone, even though you often tried to push everyone away.

You had a curiosity about technology, and I believe that if given a second chance, you might have pursued something related to it. I remember when I was young, and we had ice cream at home. You always enjoyed being the last to eat it, savoring it more when there was nothing left. At the time, I wondered why you did that, but it was your way of appreciating things, holding onto them like the last drop of water in a desert. It took me years to understand that.

If someone asked for help, it wasn't that you were selfish—I know you weren't. You helped friends and family without hesitation. But in your last years, it was hard for you to breathe, and you lacked the strength. That's why you often said, "I need to feel good to do something," even if that something was going to the doctor. It sounded crazy to me, but I tried my best to understand.

I like to think that everything happens for a reason. I may search for a reason in this matter for a long time, but I also believe there's a moment for everyone. For me, it was your time, without a doubt, but you also decided it was enough. I believe we have a destiny but not a fixed destination. We choose our path, but we never know when we'll reach it.

You thought you were coming back home, but there were moments when you knew the end was near. Even then, you never said goodbye to us. When we were told you were gone, it left us not only with questions but with a hole in our hearts. I know Mom will carry that for a long time, but I've decided to move forward for your grandchildren, and that's why I'm writing this.

You had your regrets, which we all know, but life gave you the chance to change, and I think you did.  We will always remember you and share stories with your grandchildren about how great you were in sports and how their grandfather was a legend worldwide.

Love you always.

Your Daughter.