Last night in my dreams, I had a great conversation with my dad’s father, Harold, Harry, or what I called him– Bumpkin. I’m not sure where my nickname for him originated from, but he was one of the most exceptional men of my life, and no matter how busy he was, he was never too busy for his family or close friends. My gramps was one of those guys you’d always want in your corner– he could make you laugh, impart some great wisdom, and encourage you to think for yourself and follow through with your commitments. From what I’ve heard, he lived a pretty privileged life– he grew up in the timber industry and was most comfortable in any environment of a shop or mill. His chosen profession was a Millwright with Simpson Timber Company. The man was brilliant.

I’m not sure why I gave you that much background on him; perhaps, I miss him and look up to him as a role model. He loved me unconditionally, and I knew that I was unique to him.

The dream sequence–

Picture, if you will, the scene in Forrest Gump where Tom Hanks sits on the park bench in Chippewa Square, Savannah, Georgia, where he goes on about life being like a box of chocolates– yeah, that scene. In my dream, I was walking past a similar park and park bench like the one in the movie, and I looked over to see an older man and woman sitting there quietly, just enjoying the sights and sounds of the day. As I approached the park bench, I noticed a bouquet next to the lady– a bushel of violets, posies, lavender, roses, phlox, and poppies. It was vibrant and beautiful, and the flowers matched this very well-groomed lady with a light-colored blouse, gray trousers, and a light windbreaker. She had a smile and was happy being on that bench next to the gentleman. I gazed over to the gentleman, and he was wearing a pair of well-worn denim jeans, a cotton plaid patterned button-down, suspenders, brown wool socks, and loafers.

I asked if I could sit next to them while waiting for my ride. We began conversing. My cell phone rang a few times during our conversation– I ignored each incoming call as I was more excited to talk with these familiar strangers in my presence. I silenced my cell phone and stowed it in my backpack. They mentioned that I looked a lot like their grandson. They said they hadn’t seen him in years, but they were very proud of him for chasing his dreams and living life to the fullest. I asked why they hadn’t seen him, and the man stated that people get busy in life and don’t make time to visit as much anymore. My heart was heavy after hearing that— I got quiet and just peacefully sat there staring at the flowers. A little knot formed in my throat, and my eyes began to water. I turned away so they couldn’t see my face. I continued to sit quietly and stare. The woman looked over at me, reached into her purse, and very discreetly handed me a tissue to dry my eyes. For some reason, I was embarrassed to show what I perceived as a weak moment in front of these strangers.

My ride had pulled up in front of the park bench, and I was in no rush to leave the present company of these two strangers, but as I stood up, the man made eye contact with me and said, “…Chad… we are very proud of you, and you are exactly where you are supposed to be right now. Continue on your path; pick the colors less chosen in the crayon box.” I found it odd, as we never exchanged names when I first sat down, but they knew my name. THEY KNEW MY NAME!

I woke up a little after 7 am this morning. I jotted down some notes in my journal and started my day. I have been thinking about my grandparents all day, and I am glad they popped into my dreams yesterday. They were both essential in shaping me into the man I am today. My grandmother was always kind, caring, and insistent on keeping chivalry alive in our family. I owe so much to them, and while they are no longer here in physical form, I know they are looking over me and cheering me on. I want to think that last night’s dream what a direct connection to me in the subconscious realm to let me know they love me and are still present in my life today.