My father lived a wonderful life and I am so fortunate to have been born his daughter. He was full of life lessons and no matter what, he always stuck to his guns. He was very headstrong (probably as a result of his Greek and Turkish heritage) and would let you know loudly when he thought you had screwed up!
When I was considering joining the Foreign Service, the one thing that caused me to hesitate was that I would most likely be living far from Dad. I talked to him about it and he encouraged me to "go for it." For me, being away from him was one of the most difficult parts of being assigned overseas. When I found out I was going to Pakistan, it took me a month before I could write to him, letting him know where I would go next. When I got his response, saying that he trusted that I knew what I was doing, it was a huge relief. And I know he was proud of me.
I know that when I'm in Pakistan, my father will be with me. He is at peace now, taking wonderful deep breaths without coughing. He's probably on the back nine with Ben Hogan, hitting the ball long and straight.
I love you Dad.
