Albert Witt, a name many of you probably don't know. He is sometimes called Al, Mr. Witt, Sir, Dad but most importantly to me he is Papa Al. This man has brought many life lessons into my life growing up. And about two weeks ago, he taught the most important life lesson of life, after hearing the news he was dying. This is a hard blog to write about, but it needs to be said. He has taught me the importance of living for a greater purpose.

We were sitting in his hospital room, and as much as he could talk he was expressing how proud he was that my sister and I were in school, and doing well. He was dosing in and out, but finally he had enough strength to say, "I'm ready." He began quoting scripture and thanking the Lord for the life he had been giving. I was crying, but I felt more happy than sad for him. This man was excited to go home, to meet his Father. In that moment, he taught the importance of healing. That dying doesn't have to be all sad. The 67 year old Vietnam Veteran, husband, father of three, grandfather of 10, great grandfather of 8, Follower of Christ has lived an abundant life. He has seen parts of the world, experienced love in many ways, and taught the value of family. He would never turn away a person in need. He would give everything he had in order to help a brother. He cares deeply for people and the presence of conversation.

He has spent his life healing others, and now it is time for the people who love him to let him be healed. "My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever." Psalm 73:26. Although I don't know when he is going home, I know he will be healed for eternity with one who created him. I am grateful for the time spent learning from him, his hugs, and endless encouragement. He never failed to show me I was loved, and who I was loved by. Thank you Papa Al for being a role model of Christ loving Grandpa. I love you.