Journal entry by Mary Lynn Minning —
As I am spending most of my day watching the tribute to Paul on dvd, reading the eulogy shared by Stephen, Paul’s son, his life story written by Sharon and the beautiful memorial presented by our granddaughter Jordan, I am overwhelmed. The deep sadness that can’t be explained in words climbs out of the depth of my soul saying “I want to do this again”. I want to start over and have redo everyday of my life with this man I loved more than I could describe. From the beginning I affectionately called him “my favorite “. He said “favorite what?” I would tell him favorite friend, lover, person, husband, spiritual partner, grass cutter etc, etc. this will never change!
When Paul was diagnosed on Ash Wed we began conversations about how he felt that he had one foot on earth and the other in heaven. He would reassure me of his love many times of the day and try to convince me that I will be strong when he was gone. He would say “you have to be strong Mary, you have two families that depend on you now! It seems however at the moment I am depending on them while I cry in their arms. But I know that I am strong and intend to be the best darn grandmother, friend and mother I can be.
For all of you who knew Paul or were generous enough to read of our families plight, we thank you. Thank you for the messages here on Care bridge, the visits with Paul, and especially all your prayers that were the reason our Lord took Paul to Himself on the day celebrated by the Catholic Church as the day Christ ascended into heaven.
Paul truly was an amazing man. Gentle, loving, kind, and especially giving. His life touched so many and promised to continue his prayers for all he loved from heaven. I overheard Paul tell his children “I need to go to heaven now to pray for the time when all of you will join me”.
So today we celebrate Paul’s joy, and continue to pray for all who grieve.
Thank you all,
Mary Lynn
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