Joseph is the first of my three love stories. He was not perfect, but he was terrific.
My eldest little boy welcomed me into motherhood and introduced me to the delightful world of boys: catching lightning bugs, cowboys and Indians, and tae kwon do. As a young boy, he acquainted me with Goosebumps books, taught me how to build a fort with wooden blocks, and helped me appreciate G.I. Joe’s skills.
My introverted teen loved to read, listen to edgy music, and record the stats of his favorite ball teams: Cleveland Indians, Dallas Cowboys, and Duke basketball.
I admired Joseph’s discipline as I watched him work hard to pay cash for his first car, a red Plymouth Laser. He preferred working with his brain to his brawn but was determined to accept whatever work was available to purchase a car during his senior year of high school.
My respect for my son soared as I witnessed his genuine interest in people from all walks of life, and his loyalty to those he held closest.
I loved watching God’s plan unfold as Joseph’s faith matured.
On February 23, 2002, God welcomed Joseph into heaven. He is home, and I am homesick.