Tribute to my Uncle Bobby Hamilton

While in Chicago at Uncle Bob's homegoing service, I could not help but reflect on life's unexpected twists and turns. Times like this make me realize that every moment we are alive is precious, and our actions will have a lasting impact on others. We all face the inevitability of death, entering into a new phase that we lack a complete comprehension of. For now, I realize the obvious: I should strive to make every moment count so I can leave a positive legacy like Uncle Bob.

As I think about my Uncle Bob's legacy, I recognize that grief is the love that we can no longer express to those who have transitioned. So we must find others to whom we can express our love. From this revelation, I see my Uncle Bob in such a light of expressed love. For instance, I remembered Uncle Bob as a man who truly loved my Aunt and her family. Little did he know that when he married her, he also gained an extended family who would share in their journey together. Yet, Uncle Bob didn’t alter his love for her family; he expressed his love unconditionally for them. He exhibited exceptional care toward her brother, Uncle Billy, and her brother-in-law, Uncle Bubba. When Uncle Bubba’s grandson, Breon, moved to Chicago in 2008 after graduating from college, he experienced car trouble. Uncle Bob helped him find a simple solution to avoid considerable expenses. He advised Breon to sell the car (As Is) to Uncle Billy because he didn't need to rely on a vehicle when he had access to public transportation. What a blessing! Now, Breon had a portion of his rent money from the sale of his car for a year.  Now, 16 years later, Breon finally purchased his first car. Such shared wisdom he will pass to the next generation all because of Uncle Bob.

Cherishing memories like this makes me realize the value of extended family. I will confirm what Uncle Bob always answered about how he was doing. He will express that he is still kicking. I, too, am kicking, and I will continue to kick, even if my kicks aren't as high as they were when I was younger. I will kick until my transition occurs. Then, I, too, will recognize the unknown that awaits when you leave a legacy of love for your extended family.  

Love you, Uncle Bob!

1 Thessalonians 4:13-14 KJV

[13] But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. [14] For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.