Death, when most people see that word they think of sadness and pain, in reality death is a double edged sword. Death isn’t just the loss of a person, it’s more. Death is the remembrance of the life that a person has lived, it brings joy from the memories that were shared and sadness from those that were missed. The loss of someone special both breaks a family and unites it.

On February 14th, a day meant for love was instead filled with mourning. Patrick Miller, my grandfather passed away surrounded by family. When I found out that he had passed away I was filled with regret. I knew that he wasn’t doing well and I’m glad that I had a chance to see him two days prior, but I regret not visiting him and my grandmother more.

When a family member passes away you become more grateful for who you still have, you gain an understanding of the importance of life and how impactful you can be to somebody else’s. I am so thankful that I was able to spend as much time with my Papaw Miller as I did. As the country musician Riley Green said, “I wish grandpas never died.”

May the small-town country man that was my Grandpa rest in peace. Papaw Miller, you made a difference in my life but also in the lives of everyone in your community. You will be missed and never forgotten.

“Good, better, best. Never let it rest. ‘Til your good is better and your better is best.” Love you Papaw, you were the best.