To Monica Farley and Ernie Rodriguez

January 8, 2002

Dear Monica and Ernie,

I want you to know how sorry I am that your father just passed on. I knew that he had been having health problems for years but it seemed that he was always able to be strong enough to come through the medical crisis which he faced. Not so this time. I know that each of you feels his loss greatly.

I can’t think of any other experience in life that is like losing a loving parent. I lost my Dad in the 70’s and my Mom in the 80’s. Losing them profoundly affected me both then and now. There’s not many days that go by without me thinking of them and giving thanks for their love and what they gave to me. I imagine you will feel the same as time goes by.

From what I hear, your Dad was someone to be greatly admired. He worked hard and got his education, then ultimately followed his own path and established a good business, which as you know isn’t an easy task at any time. From what Jeri tells me, he was a quiet loving father to you guys and Albert and  he loved his grandchildren. He was a father about whom you can feel so deeply proud.

Having been through the experience myself I know there’s no magic words that can take away your pain at this time. I do hope each of you will realize how many around you love you. I also hope that you will be able to rest in the love of God who never changes no matter what our circumstances are.

Here’s a prayer from the Episcopal Book of Common Prayer. It has been a big help for me from time to time…maybe you will find it helpful too.

Dear God our Father, protect us through the hours of this night, that we who are wearied by the changes and chances of this life, may rest in your eternal changelessness. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Jeri and I are remembering you and your Dad when we pray.

Our hearts are full of love for you.