Once upon a time, long ago and far away, in a class we were to write a paper about our male role models. It was the first time I had considered such things.

I listed four: my dad, my uncle, and two non-family members.

My uncle, who out-lived my dad by way more than a handful of decades, was a welcome presence.

Every time this picture and its accompanying acknowledgment surfaces on social media, I am stunned and overwhelmed – –

—- but most of all I am grateful.

For so much.

So very, very much.

As in, like layers that are only getting uncovered with time. And they’re all good. Superlative, in fact.

I miss him.

Wish you could have met him.

You have people like that.

If they’re still with us on this side of eternity, today’s good day to thank them.