My dad and I had a special rapport. He was a very quiet man, with a strong love for his children, and for right, wrong, and Spirit. I could talk to him about anything. Ever since I was born, my dad had always been ill and he did his best to overcome cancer. I can remember sitting by his bed and having great talks together. One day, I asked if he would be there when God called me home, and he promised he would. He told me he would be watching over me.

One evening, many years later, Mom called and said that Dad had just died. It was the first time I had lost anyone close to me. I was devastated! I don't believe anyone is ever prepared for a loved one's passing. 

sm Every night I had nightmares about him. I cried for what seemed like forever. Going to sleep at night became such a fear for me rather than a peaceful thought. If I slept I dreamt. I bought and borrowed every magazine I could get my hands on, and sat up and read, night after night. I became so paranoid of sleep that one night I cried loudly, "Daddy, please help me". I soon learned that not only was my dad watching, but he was listening too.

When I called out for my dad to stop the dreams, they stopped. Rest became easier, but it seemed like I would never stop crying. This whole thing was very confusing for my three small children. They tried in their own sweet ways to comfort me. I do honestly believe my dad was aware of all that was happening and decided it was time to help.

One night, after crying myself to sleep, I was awakened by a gentle tug on my big toe. (Just the way Dad used to wake me when I was a child.) I sat up and stared at the foot of my bed. There was my dad, smiling at me like he always had. He couldn't have looked more real. There was no feeling of fear. Why would I ever fear him? He came out of love to help me. Pointing his finger at me he said, 

"I want you to stop this grieving. I'm fine, and I'll wait for you. Remember, I promised I would. You must get on with your life and be happy, or you will make me very sad. I love you." With that he was gone.

I realized that Dad would never be very far from me. It was a wonderful feeling to see his smile again. Somehow the grief found a warm, loving nook in my heart to settle in, and I was finally at peace with my dad and myself.


About The Author

Dorothy Crump is a writer and artist. She resides with her husband in Lake Worth, Florida. Dorothy has been recognized by the Institute of Parapsychology in Durham, North Carolina.