On Sunday, May 22, 2016, I lost one of the most important and influential people in my life, my father and although I have, and will always miss him, I was fortunate enough to have worked by his side in a family owned business for fifteen-years.
They were easily the most rewarding and memorable years of my life, and those in which my father not only taught me many things, but also became the very wind beneath my wings.
It was during this time that we became extremely close; both my daughters were born; I bought my first home and experienced the loss of a grandparent, his father.
We also met a variety of interesting people along the way from many walks of life, which allowed me to witness his interactions with others in amazement, as there was never a time that he didn’t treat everyone no matter who they were, the very same way, he himself would like to be treated.
He was truly inspiring and I could not have had a better role model. In fact, one of the last times we spoke, even though very sick he still selflessly thought to ask; “Have you made any progress with your writing? I told him, it’s in God’s hands. He said, as is everything.”
So Dad, I thank you not only for all you taught me, but also for “everything” I have become. I hope this makes you proud.
Like Father, Like Son
I have followed in your footsteps, you have taught me many things, shown me many more.
Like, what it was to be a caring son, takes to be a devoted father, means to be a loving grandfather.
I will never forget all you taught me, always treasure what you have shown me. In life, it is less important what you are, than what you become.
If I can become, as caring a son, devoted a father, loving a grandfather. It will be your legacy I keep.
© Richard Lawrence Belford
“The true meaning of life is to plant trees, under whose shade you do not expect to sit”
~ Nelson Henderson ~
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About the Author: Richard Lawrence Belford is an Inspirational Writer, a father of two daughters and the eldest of three sons who grew up in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. He has been on a twenty-year creative journey that’s been fueled by his genuine desire to provide faith, comfort and hope to those in grief.
His inspirational writings are beautifully illustrated with photography on a series of wall plaques designed by Reed Photo Art & Imaging Inc
“Like Father, Like Son” is printed on metallic photographic paper and mounted on 8½’’ x 11’’ ⅜’’ inch thick pressboard with a UV protective laminate and contemporary black bevelled edge. It can also be custom ordered in 16’’x 20’’ and 24’’x 36'' sizes. For additional information regarding its availability please click here.
Richard has also written a book entitled; “It’s Not Goodbye, It’s See You Later” that includes beautifully illustrated artwork, inspiring quotes and a collection of his inspirational parables, accompanied by the stories behind their creation
A parable by definition is a symbolic short story that illustrates or teaches some truth, religious principle, or moral lesson. He trusts that his parables, along with these stories will stir some emotions in you that we’ve all felt, emotions that can help bring some small measure of solace to those grieving the loss of someone dear to their heart.
Now, although “It’s Not Goodbye, It’s See You Later” is about loss, it’s also about the many lives and love shared by families & friends. Richard has dedicated the book to the memory and written its foreword as a tribute to the memory of his father. He hopes it makes him proud.
Like Father, Like Son
Lawrence Earl James Belford and Richard Lawrence Belford
- Circa 1960
“It’s Not Goodbye, It’s See You Later” is a beautifully illustrated full-color 8½’’ x 11’’ inspirational book and is available in a paperback or a Kindle edition at: Amazon.com
It can also be purchased at: barnesandnoble.com in the United States and chapters.indigo.ca in Canada.
Richard invites you to follow him on Instagram and Twitter, like his Author’s Facebook Page or visit the It’s Not Goodbye, It’s See You Later Facebook Page and perhaps join the increasing number of people who believe this book will inspire you to always try & say;
“ I’ll see you later, instead of goodbye!”
He can be contacted by email at info@richardlawrencebelford.ca or please visit his website at www.richardlawrencebelford.ca for further information.
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