A Year Later: What Remains and What Grows

Today marks one year since my father died peacefully just before sunrise, at home with my mother—the great love of his life.

We had four “bonus” years with him after he was diagnosed with advanced cancer.

I’m still learning what it means to carry forward what he left behind.

My father lived fully—in faith, in family, and in service. He was a doctor, a teacher, a Navy and Air National Guard officer, and the heart of a joyful, sprawling family of ten children and twenty-five grandchildren. He and my mother raised us with the help of countless homemade waffles, Christmas tree-cutting excursions, and the unwavering belief that education and hard work could change lives.

Dad was also my mentor and model in family medicine. He believed in teaching through presence and patience. I’ve carried his voice with me in every exam room I’ve entered—and in every decision I’ve made this past year.

This was a year of deep change.

For my family.

For my work.

For me.

My mother welcomed her first great grandchild.

My sister celebrated a milestone birthday.

My brother completed his doctorate.

We have missed Dad unimaginably. And still—Dad’s presence remains.

A consummate caretaker of creatures furred, footed and feathered, my siblings and I regularly remark that Dad now visits us in the form of the gentle deer and ebullient cardinals.

We keep our bird feeders topped off and our gardens blooming in his honor.

I stopped to take the photo that begins this post while crossing the Cousins Island bridge on my way to say goodbye to my father for the final time. The brilliance of that morning sky has stayed with me all year—a reminder of love’s fierce light.

My father taught me that legacy is doesn’t always mean repeating what others have done, or creating monuments in their honor. It is a way of moving through the world.

The Bountiful Path was born out of that spirit.

Out of the desire to walk with others who are also finding their way forward.

To honor where we come from—and imagine where we’re going.

Reflection prompts:

What has changed for you this past year?

What remains?

Whose legacy are you continuing through the life you’re creating?

What small act helps you stay connected to someone you’ve lost?

Thank you for walking with me in legacy.

The Bountiful Path is growing—and new offerings are on the horizon, including a virtual book circle and live conversations inspired by Radio Maine.

Let’s keep the path bountiful.

Warmly,

Lisa

Thank you for joining this reflection on love, loss, and the quiet ways we carry those we miss. Please share if it speaks to you.