Loved

Written for https://lindaghill.com/2024/07/19/the-friday-reminder-and-prompt-for-socs-july-20-2024/

I loved hearing my dad’s repeated stories about his time as a paratrooper in the second world war.

Curious about his part in the second world war, I remember a picture of him, with a maroon beret. I wanted to get it painted, but never did. I lost it when we moved. He was part of the paratroopers, who held a bridge during D Day.

He sat in his red chair, with a crossword puzzle never far away. Quitting smoking at the age of fifty, he kept extra strong mints on the table.

During my childhood, I had the ability to recall every battle and would frequently inquire if he shot anyone. His answer; only if they were going to kill me. My dad, a gentle giant and calm under pressure, even when I misbehaved.

His disappointed tone worse than Mum shouting.

During the Remembrance parade, he would stand when the national anthem played. Never afraid to show his emotions, I could see the sadness in his eyes. When he watched a movie, he cried at the happy and sad parts.

He helped me through my trauma of being bullied at school and my self esteem grew because he listened without judgement. I talked to him about anything and with his advice, I understood I needed to move forward and not blame myself.

I am proud to be his daughter.