22 June 2009

Today is the second anniversary of my dad's death. I am sure many are tired of this subject, but it is one of great importance to me. I think I will tell you about some of the things that made James H. Nichols, LTC USAR, the man he was.
He taught me a lot of things. He taught me to cuss. My first cuss word was "Son-of-a-bitch!" They tell me I was about 2 when I learned this wonderful set of words. Dad was putting in an air conditioner in our house in San Antonio and was having a bit of a problem and forgot I was around. He also taught me to drink beer. He would pour me and the dog some beer in a bowl on a hot Saturday afternoon. I must have been about 3 or 4. Don't freak! The damn dog drank most of it!
Dad taught me how to change the oil in a car. He also taught me to change tires. He taught me this stuff so I would never have to depend on any one to help me. That has stood me in good stead. I have changed tires on the side of the interstate in Atlanta in the dark. I have changed the oil in many of my cars. I don't do this stuff anymore 'cause I am too old, fat, tired...you fill in the blank. But I know how to do it if I have to!
I learned that I can do anything I put my mind and heart into. Daddy always told Carole and I that we could do anything or be anything. That is pretty advanced for a man who grew-up in the 30's and 40's. But maybe that was because he was raised by a woman. His dad died when Daddy was 8. THAT is a sad story for another day!
My dad taught me to always fight for what I believe in. He would always say "If you believe it in your heart, fight until the bitter end." Sometimes I think I took it too far, but I have always tried to do that. He also taught me perseverance. Another of his favorite things to say was, "Just keep putting one foot in front of the other and you will get to the top of the hill." That was how he carried out his life. He persevered until the end.
I don't think he ever gave up even in the end. His big old floppy heart just finally gave out. He fought as long as he could. He knew where he was going and was ready. He only waited for his wings to come and fly him home. And at 5:22 a.m. Friday, 22 June 2007 he made his last flight and flew home to his God.
I have a hole in my heart and soul that will never be filled. One day, Daddy, I too will fly away home. Please be there to meet me.