Dear Dad,
I just got an email from Lisa. She is missing you a lot right now. Sometimes, when we miss you madly, we have so many questions that we want to ask. But, we always wonder if we really even care to hear the answers. There are so many unknowns. We miss you. In the Cup'ik culture, we are always teaching the children to honor their elders and listen to what they are taught and told... sometimes I wish terribly that I knew more about our Haida heritage. I remember meeting your dad (aka "Grandpa Nelson") on one distinct occasion. We were in Anchorage visiting you at the Days Inn and he was there to visit for a short while, too. I remember him being tall, and having the stature of a bold, Haida. But, Dad, I don't know much else. We talked to him on the phone and exchanged a few emails after you passed away. That's it. It made me really sad that he didn't go to your funeral. It makes me sad that we don't know him. I was in Juneau last fall and desperately wanted to meet with him for lunch or coffee, but wasn't able to get contact info on him. Maybe it's best? You had so much love for all of those in your life-- I know you loved your dad. And, I know you missed him. A couple of my former students just lost parents over the weekend... my heart goes out to them. Their lives are forever changed. Give me words, and help me be a light for those who have lost parents at a young age. It is never easy, and it changes you. I love you more than words can say and promise you that I am going to continue to learn. Thinking of you, Dad.
Luv,
Little Little
