Ode to an Eagle-for my Father

I had a good Dad. He worked very hard and was up at sunrise each day of his life. He retired from Southern Railway which was a physically demanding job.

He was a quite man but when he spoke all eight children listened. He didn't speak often and was often lost in thought. He also had a booming laugh and a twinkle in his blue eyes. He was Scot/Irish and loved his home, family, and country.

On his death bed the last words I spoke to him was "I'll see you on the other side if I make it." I also told him I was going home to see Mama before going back to my job on the mountain. I asked "Is there anything you want me to tell her for you?" He answered from out of a coma-like state before death "Tell her I love her". The last word spoken to me by my Father were of Love. He died three days later on Feb. 21, 2001. Mama did shortly after on July, 25, 2001. She only lived a little over 4 months after Dad went.

Happy Father's Day to my Dad in heaven where I'm sure he is straightening the clouds and cleaning the mist and fog away on early mornings -he loved to work. He loved to keep up with the weather so I am sure he is quite busy with all the clouds, storms, and fog rolling around up there. On the third day after his death two golden eagles came over my house and as one lingered on the sidelines the main one circled my house for a good 5 to 7 minutes. I had written a poem entitled "Ode to an Eagle" and given it to my Father. I'm positive that was his way of letting me know he was just fine and still around. Golden Eagles are very unusual anytime of the year but especially in February. It was a sign to me.

I can't remember the entire poem but it was something like

To be able to swoop and soar so far,

Would it not please you in the least?

If I could trade places with you ,

For just one hour, for your majestic power?

I beet my Dad knows how it is to fly like an eagle now.