I am sorry for your loss.

During my twenty-some years of existence, I have only suffered losses of friends. That is not to say that no one of family has died. I have just never 'suffered' as a result of their death, until now.

Yesterday my grandfather suffered a stroke. Following the stroke, MRIs were done to determine the effect of the stroke. Half of his brain was destroyed. The other half was a mess. Doctors projected he had but three to four days to live. My father, aunt, and uncle immediately bought airline tickets to Hong Kong. I can only imagine that their one wish was to make it across seas before my grandfather passed; a chance to hold and touch their father's hands before the blood stops circulating and the palms turn cold.

My grandfather has passed, and at this very moment in time my father is stuck at the airport because of a layover in Los Angeles. How fucking shitty is that?

I do not believe in a particular higher being, but if I did I can tell you I would be doubting all that it stands for right now. I have never felt this sort of pain for anyone before. The pain I feel for my father outweighs any pain I have for myself. Before he left I called him just to let him know I knew of the situation. Of course the conversation was just that - an acknowledgment of the facts and nothing more. Prior to hanging up he told me to take care of myself, as he did not want to have to worry about me, as well. My heart sank.

I hate that I feel, but cannot express. I love you, Dad. I am so very sorry for your loss...