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In response to a competition a reader shares her greatest memory of her father.
My greatest memory of my dad:
For many years, from the time I was little my dad’s desire was to go on a religious Pilgrimage to Mecca (Saudi Arabia).
We were little back then and my dad, being the only sole bread winner, struggled financially to bring us up. He had immense responsibilities of raising seven children.
My favourite memory of my dad was the day I told him that his lifetime desire/wish was going to be fulfilled and that travel arrangements have been made for him to go overseas.
I still can remember the mixed emotions of shock, happiness and excitement he expressed. He initially thought I was joking and did not believe me. I don't have a top paying job and for the 22 years I have been working I deprived myself of much luxury.
I saved up enough money over the years to help fulfill dad’s dream. I can still remember him boarding the plane, smiling, full of joy and happiness, waving at me as he went off on his lifetime trip.
The day he arrived back from overseas, my sister told me that the only person he kept asking for at the airport was me. If only you know how he hugged me when he arrived back home. With so much love, appreciation and joy!
This feeling, memory and moment will always remain in my heart for many years to come. The blessings and joy that comes from fulfilling a parent's lifetime wish/dream, is the best feeling one can ever experience.
