What pictures will my son remember when he comes to the plan granite marker over his father’s grave? What will my daughters remember? Or my wife?

I’ve resolved to give fewer lectures, to send fewer platitudes rolling their way, to give less criticism, to offer fewer opinions. From now on, I’ll give them pictures they can live by. Pictures that can comfort them, encourage them, and keep them warm in my absence.

Because when I’m gone, there will only be silence. And memories. Of all I could give to make their lives a little fuller, a little richer, a little more prepared for the journey ahead of them, nothing compares to the gift of remembrance. Pictures that show they are special, and that they are loved. Pictures that will be there when I am not. Pictures that have within them a redemption all their own.

– Ken Gire