A Day Full of Grandpa

"The ones that love us never really leave us."

Out of death comes something beautiful, and on January 30, 2007, Saverio Plotino became a cardinal.

When I think of a "family man," my mind automatically goes to Grandpa. Together, Grandpa and Grandma - the love of his life - had four children: my father and my three aunts. Each received a piece of what made Grandpa so special. Zia Ann received Grandpa's determination and strength. Dad received Grandpa's stature and attention to detail. Aunt Ida received Grandpa's love for laughter, fun, and family. Zia Fran received Grandpa's generosity and good will.

But most of all, when I think of Grandpa, I think of his devotion to his grandchildren - Paul, Stephanie, Anthony, and me. He took care of us; attended recitals, plays, parades, graduations; picked us up from school when we were sick; praised us for our good grades; showed us nothing but love day in and day out. It doesn't surprise me one bit that Grandpa shows himself to us from time to time, especially around times of immense joy.

Lately I have been feeling like a part of me was missing and I couldn't figure out what it was. My finals are nearly complete, my family is coming down from NJ to celebrate my pending graduation next week, I have ESP Summer Camp to look forward to and a full-time job in the fall...and yet it wasn't enough. Until today.

When I left the house this morning to head to work, Grandpa was sitting right next to my car, his blazing crimson feathers even more intense in the morning light. When I got closer to my car, he began flying all around me - up in the trees, back down onto the gravel, over to the mailbox, into the bushes, onto the porch, and finally into some shrubs. I had goosebumps all the way to work! Then, when I turned into the ESP parking lot, there he was again! When I went to run errands with Laura, again he flew past my car! Later on at the store I turned around and there was a picture of a cardinal! He was everywhere and I could feel him. I felt complete.

I stood a little taller today. I breathed a little deeper. I smiled more genuinely.

Today, I felt very loved.