Kristy Seven Graces Blog
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Motherhood + Style + Wellness

faith, family, Uncategorized ·

The Post I Never Wanted to Write

If you’re a friend, blog reader of mine, or a follower on Instagram or Facebook, you probably know that my Popo, my maternal grandfather, has had failing health for the past several months. Little did we know that the culprit would be cancer. We found out on Monday that the reason for his failing health was stage 4 carcinoma. My Popo has been fighting a good fight since February, the first time his health started declining. On Wednesday, September 2, surrounded by his beautiful wife of 59 years, his children, and many family members, he peacefully went home to be with Jesus. I know this because we believe, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life (John 3:16).”
Everything happened so quickly. Since last week, I have been traveling back and forth to be with him and my family. Living two hours away has been tough, but I’m thankful that I live close enough to hop in my car and be there as soon as I can. A couple of weeks ago when he was still at home and we were visiting, Charlotte gave him a blessing. He said that children have a very special place with God, so he placed her hand on his forehead, and he asked her for a blessing. It was the sweetest thing. 
On one of his last days, he gave her one. I’ll never forget it. Even in his last days, he still was giving blessings to others and asking “how are you?” He’s been a blessing to all of us just by living his life. He’s lived serving the Lord, and he’s been a shining light to all. My Popo, Deacon Al Calzada, will be missed tremendously. 
I am grateful to have been so close to my grandpa, a man who was more like a second father to me, as he was to so many. He was my spiritual advisor, more than just a grandpa. He was the leader of our family, a true patriarch. The memories I have with him will live in me forever. I’ll miss his wisdom and his laugh. I’ll miss his silly stories. I’ll miss his Thanksgiving turkey. I’ll miss his homilies. And I’ll especially miss his surprise visits to Houston. He taught me so much. 
Even though I’m full of sadness from the thought of missing him, I have no doubt in my mind that he is rejoicing in his eternal splendor, free from pain, and resting with our Lord and our God.

This all still seems surreal. Grief is a tricky thing. I’ll be taking a little break from blogging while I spend time with my family. (I’ve already been taking a break and this is why. I’ll be back to commenting and sharing again soon.) I promised my Popo I would continue to write and share. And oh, how I have a million words to share because of him. I’m sure he will inspire many more posts to come. He was one of the blog’s biggest fans. (He even translated this post to Spanish so he could share it with his Spanish ministry.)

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all of your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. It means so much. When my Popo would sign a card or say goodbye he would always say, “May God bless you and keep you.” Be blessed, friends, and may God certainly keep you.   

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Comments

  1. Kristy, I am so very sorry. It’s just never fair to have to say goodbye to the people we love. I’ll be praying for you and your sweet Popo. May God be with you during this difficult time. xoxoxoooo

  3. So sorry for this devastating loss. I completely lost it at the picture of him and Charlotte. Amazing memory that you have captured. What a wonderful blessing this man has had on your life and so many others. I will definitely be praying for you and your family.

    • Thank you so much for being so supportive during this yucky time, friend! Yep, I look at pictures now and have a hard time myself. Keep the prayers coming! Xoxo

    • Yes, we certainly had a great relationship, Lauren, and I’ll miss him like crazy. Thank you so much for praying for my family! It means the world. Xoxo

  8. Sending you hugs, love, thoughts and prayers. I lost my grandfather last year and I know the hole it leaves behind in your heart. I’m so sorry for your loss.

  12. Oh Kristy that photo of him and Charlotte brought tears to my eyes. Your Popo really was a special man. Lots of love and prayers for you and your family. xoxo

    • Yes, he really was, Tiffany. I still catch myself sometimes having a hard time thinking he’s really gone. Thanks so much for the thoughts and prayers. I appreciate it more than you know! Xoxo

  15. –My deepest condolences to u & ur family. This was such a beautiful tribute. God bless you all.

  16. So sweet. What a wonderful man he became throughout his lifetime. May God bless and keep you through this difficult time. He will be greatly missed.

  17. Thinking of you, Kristy. We’ve had recent death and then the year anniversary of a grandparent and it is still tough. Praying! xo

    • Thank you so much, sweet friend. I know the holidays will most definitely be hard as will this entire next year. But our faith and your prayers are getting us through day by day. Xoxo

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