Forget Yourself and Get To Work

One of the last things my father told us before he passed was to "Forget yourself and get to work!" What an amazing, inspiring, giving man my father was. It's hard to put into words how much you love your dad and how hard it is to say to say good bye until you try. There are no words to describe a father & daughters relationship. It's something that is carried in my heart and can never be replaced. I know our relationship does not end here on earth, but that we will have all eternity to build on that and continue to make memories and learn and grow.

My dad was constantly grateful for EVERYTHING! He loved nature, he loved people and was always quick to show his gratitude for both. He gave without one thought of his own benefit. He was a true example of selfless charity. His strength though out his disease has been an inspiration to many. Jolene Jacobs wrote a poem about him that I read at his funeral. It fits perfectly with exactly the kind of person he is.

Ted taught us so much without saying a word

He taught silent sermons, but everyone heard

He spoke of being positive confined to a chair

That our trials refine us when life doesn’t seem fair

There are so many things Ted quietly taught

Like joy in life is based on our thoughts

Ted said happiness is based on our attitude

That each day is a gift, so be full of gratitude

Throughout his trials, Ted made no complaint

He showed each day how to live as a Saint

Ted said trials came to pass, not to stay

That we can find joy in what comes our way

Ted said to raise our sights to possibility

It is always there if we have eyes to see

Like Job, Ted endured his trials faithfully

Choosing his attitude was the victory

He said we all get to make of our life

Days filled with happiness, or misery and strife.

While we can’t direct the wind or stop the hail

Ted said we have power to adjust our sails

Ted showed us that all have a reason to smile

To rejoice in hope; to be patient in trials

He said the prophet Joseph taught as he should

Life would give us experience and be for our good

Ted said the Savior would help though our test

And with him each would find heavenly rest

So we say with full hearts, Ted, we honor you

What you silently taught us, we know to be true

You taught us so much without saying a word

Now we must live our lives to show that we heard

I love you Daddy! I pray that you stay close as we try to raise your grandkids to be the kind of person you were.

Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers. They were felt and much appreciated. We are so grateful for such kind, loving friends and family!