The thing about life
is that it doesn't last forever.

At some point,
sometimes too soon,
we have to say goodbye.
Goodbye to the laughs,
hugs, the words, voice,
and the smile,
knowing we can always find them
again in our hearts.

As we say goodbye,
let us not dwell on the grief
of what we have lost-
but rather celebrate
all we were given.

Let us remember the many memories
we've made over the years.
and let's never forget
the love-
so when we see him again,
someday,
we can be embraced
into his loving arms
and feel home.

This is not a final goodbye.

We can all go forth,
living life to the fullest,
making wonderful memories,
and we will remember it all
so when we see him again,
we can tell him all about it.

And Grandpa,
if I live as long as you,
I'll have a lot to tell you.

Until then,
I will remember the many memories
we shared.
I only wish you could still be here
to make more with me.
But I know you'll always look after me-
maybe from a golf course,
or a back porch in Florida,
or in front of the shed in the backyard
with a handful of peanuts
and two burgers on the grill-
one for you and one for me-
because neither of us liked the ribs.

Thank you for being my Grandpa.
I'll miss you.