I’ve enjoyed time today with both my grandsons; Barrett and Benaiah. I can’t begin to explain the joys of being a grandparent; it’s just one of God’s most wonderful blessings.

At different times with each of these boys I’ve had some special times today. During one of the times I was carrying Barrett around in my mother’s den I walked by a couple of photos of my dad and a plaque honoring his memory from President George W. Bush for his service to his country in World War 2.

It was just one of those moments when I was caught off guard and didn’t expect the flood of emotion and memories that filled my mind and heart. As we stood there together, I told Barrett (almost 10 months old) about his great grandfather and what an amazing man he was. I wish that Ben and Barrett would have had the privilege of knowing my dad, but since they won’t have that opportunity in this life I hope I can live in a way that leaves a legacy for them to remember with great admiration and fondness.

As Barrett and I stood there together, I told him how much I still missed my dad. I really do, but in the midst of that emptiness, I’m thankful for the incredible impact he had on me – I’m thankful for the legacy left by Herschel Vernon Rutledge.