Blessing Behind the Lens

Yesterday when I was uploading the pictures for the Catan post, I stumbled across a picture of Grandpa on the card that I didn't know was there.  I quickly closed it out not ready to look at it.

Today my parents popped over for a visit.  They've never done that, and since we live so far away our visits are delicately orchestrated.  Mom just needed to get out of Grandpa's house for a bit, and see us and give me a hug.

I decided to look and see what Phil had captured completely unbeknownst by me.  Just when I thought I'd make it through this day with a dry eye, the flood gates burst open.  You see, the only regret I had was not taking a picture of my Grandfather's hands when I said goodbye.  I never told anyone that I wanted anything like that, so I know that God inspired Phil to take that photos perspective.    To have the last day (that we didn't know would be the last) we spent with Grandpa recorded is such a huge blessing.  Phil captured him exactly how I knew him, those big hands gently folded while lovingly looking on at his family.

Grandpa or Big Papa Dutch as the kids knew him celebrating Abi's birthday

Here's an insight on Grandpa's size.  At 86 he still stood 6 feet tall, wore a size 14 shoe, and my thumb wasn't even as large as his pinkie.  So his hands aren't distorted or out of proportion, they truly were that big.   He was my gentle giant and my heart aches the loss of his presence.   But this picture is my souls balm, and the sting of regret joyously fades into oblivion.