Several weeks ago I was blessed to witness a gentle, thoughtful act of love that was heart warming and still brings tears to my eyes. It was a true reminder of what "family" really means. The oldest son of an ailing father physically lifted his wheelchair-bound father off of a porch, with the help of his nephew, so he could push his dad around the yard of his childhood .... So he could share a beautiful day with the man who taught him how to be a man. His father was dying of cancer, couldn't walk, and barely had the strength to hold up his head, so the son held it up for him.
This man was once a strong, mountain of a man who worked on the railroad. He could fix anything, teach anyone anything, and he loved fiercely. He raised three boys and guided them into manhood as a man's man, with a gentle touch. He always had time for his boys, and supported their dreams no matter how unconventional they may have been. He was always their biggest fan.
These "boys" are now men in their 60's and they took amazing care of their father in the wake of their mother's death. They spared his dignity while taking care of his needs. Their respect and reverence for this man never wavered and this weekend, they will lay him to rest.
He worked hard, loved well and leaves an amazing legacy. Eight grandchildren and one great grandchild will all gather with the three "boys" to celebrate his life with laughter mixed with tears. They will hug and share stories, and they will love each other as he taught them. They will embrace and surround his big sister, who is 90 years old, and the last of her generation. They will model the love of Christ, as they have all along.
I am blessed to know them, and blessed to have been part of caring for Euston Mayer in the last months of his life. I wish I had know him longer, but I feel I know him well, because the character of his sons tells me all I need to know about the man he was.
Rest is peace, Mr. Mayer. It was an honor.
