Going Home

Three years ago today my father passed away, after his struggle with cancer. His was one of 4 cancer battles my family has had, and he was the second to lose the battle. A friend passed earlier on the same day, after his much longer struggle with cancer. I heard that our friend had passed first, and at that time, it seemed like my dad was still several days away from going. I was so happy for our friend, and his family, and then later for my dad and our family too. It is so interesting to me that they were both able to go home on this day that is sacred to us - the founding of our church, and the date revealed by Joseph Smith to be birth of our Savior. It unique to share this sacred day with the family of our friend, and also with another sacred occasion, the General Conference of our church. And also with the Passover and Easter season, the time of rebirth and resurrection. It was a beautiful time to go home for both men, after two lives well lived.

My father was a dcotor, a family practioner, and our friend was in iridologist - he practiced natural/alternative medicine. They were both residents of a small town, and there was tension between the doctors and this friend in that town. But even amid some serious tension and unkindness, my father and this friend showed support and respect for each other. That has always made me happy.

 

I first heard this song, or at least really listened to the lyrics, a few days after my father "went home". It expresses so beautifully how I feel about his passing. There is a little introduction, you can skip to 0:50 where the song really starts. It's worth reading the lyrics. I look forward to someday "going home" and being with him and all my friends and loved ones again.