My great grandmother passed away this week. It was seen universally as a blessed release. The funeral was in Idaho falls on Thursday and I didn't want to leave my students right before midterms, so I only heard about the funeral via my parents and grandmother.

I called my father yesterday afternoon, asking questions, like who attended, who spoke. He told me that my aunt Lisa wrote a type of eulogy and that it was quite beautiful. Then he said something I wish I could relive over and over. He said

You and Lisa have the talent of writing such pretty, poetic pieces. I can only write business memos.

I didn't know where to begin processing that comment. I love my father so much and it meant everything to me to be considered a great poetic writer in his eyes. Then I thought of how honored I was to be linked to my aunt, who I look up to so highly. It was such a wonderful moment I got to share with him, even though it was only over the phone. It is good to know that those people you love cherish you for who you are and what you can produce. I still have a ways to go to be nearly as prolific as my beautiful aunt and friend, but I am honored to be in the same father-unduced bracket.

And don't be fooled. My dad is a great and funny writer. When he puts his mind to it.