One year ago on this date, we lost dad. After an all too brief battle with an unseen enemy, he succumbed to his wounds. Proof that even our heroes must die.

What followed was still a blurry series of events to this day. I can scarcely recall individual days from the months following his passing, but there are moments here and there that stand out clearer than others. More than anything I remember having an unnatural amount of composure and resolve in the face of this personal tragedy.

When dad passed, I believe he imparted these qualities to me permanently so that I could bear the torch he carried all those years. Now it is my responsibility to light the way for everyone who matters to me, as he had done his entire life for us. This is the single most important responsibility I have ever accepted and I do so with love and an enthusiastic willingness.

The truth is, I have no idea what the future holds. I have never been scared of this fact, because I know none of it is guaranteed. That means there is nothing to fret over. All I can do is give myself completely to those who need me, and the rest will work itself out.

“It’ll be alright.” – Timothy Ross Wagoner – 9/19/1956 – 2/9/2022.