I got the call just after leaving work on the night of January 4th that my father was in his final hours... if he had that long. So I rushed home changed clothes and was back out the door, and on my way to my parent's home in the country. I made it just a short while before he passed. I truly believe he was holding on until both my brother and I made it there. He was always a fighter, surviving Vietnam and fighting through life afterward, fighting back after a massive heart attack years ago, and fighting on recently through COPD and his failing health. I was able to say my goodbyes, and tell him I loved him before he passed and at his bedside I wept like I'd never wept before with my head on his shoulder as he was taking his final breaths. And then I walked outside and raged. And then I wept some more.
I have yet to smoke a pipe in his honor, although I've asked others to do so. I did smoke a few bowls the day after, but that was more for my benefit, just to help me deal with it all. I have yet to smoke a pipe today as I'm really just not feeling it right now. And that's what leads me to this question, for those of you who have done so. How long before you were able to finally choose a pipe and tobacco that was fitting, and actually smoke a pipe for the purpose of reflecting on a loved one's life you recently lost?
I have yet to smoke a pipe in his honor, although I've asked others to do so. I did smoke a few bowls the day after, but that was more for my benefit, just to help me deal with it all. I have yet to smoke a pipe today as I'm really just not feeling it right now. And that's what leads me to this question, for those of you who have done so. How long before you were able to finally choose a pipe and tobacco that was fitting, and actually smoke a pipe for the purpose of reflecting on a loved one's life you recently lost?