"Just a Lighter"

It's a lighter. I get it. Turquoise. See through. Random palm trees. It's message: "I need a vacation." Clever idea.

But it's much more than just a lighter to me. It is a symbol. Past. Change. New beginnings.

You see I found this lighter when my Dad was in the hospital the week we got back from Iran. I took his robe to him (aren't hospitals always freezing...brr) and when I checked the pockets the lighter was in there.

I don't think he remembered it, but it was there. From before. Prob from late one night. He always looked so pensive when he smoked. He never cared much for it. But he never completely quit.

Until then. After the stroke. "I have no desire," he says. "I don't even think about it."

Like I said. Past. Change. New beginnings. Our lives have been full of those lately. And I thank God for each and every one.

I may hold onto this lighter forever. Just because. It has meaning. It's a symbol. Thanks Dad. I love you.