Last weekend, while shooting a wedding, the groom danced with his mother to Celine Dion’s “Because You Loved Me” which instantly brought tears to my eyes and memories flooding into my head. You see, I danced with my dad to that very song at MY wedding, 9 years ago. I remember having chosen that particular song because while my dad is my father in almost every single sense of the word, he isn’t biologically my father, and the words just seemed to ring so, so true for our relationship. I remember tearing up dancing with my dad to that song, on that happy day, in a room full of family and friends- including my Grampa, and my mom, both of whom are no longer here with us.
And my dad.
Who’s here with us, but is in the middle to late stages of Alzheimer’s Disease, and has been robbed of much of what he was. Hearing that song, and those words- the music -the lyrics-
“You were my strength when I was weak, you were my voice when I couldn’t speak, you were my eyes when I couldn’t see…”
It’s my turn, to be dad’s strength. His voice. His eyes. HIS everything, because he loved ME. I’m still bowled over at how powerful that message is- how it was 9 1/2 years ago when I chose that song, and how it was watching a groom dance with his mother, and how it is, with me, trying to do what I can to be with my dad and help care for him…how times have changed and how the tables have turned.
Because he loved me. Because I love him.
hannah says
just reading this. so beautiful. lots of <3 your way.
Carrie Phelps says
You made me cry! What a beautiful post, I also have a srepfather I feel this way about. I’m so sorry this is happening to your Dad and his whole family.
Beeb Ashcroft says
What a moving post, now I’m tearing up. Alzheimer’s is a terrible disease. What a beautiful sentiment of the song that you are now there for your dad as he was there for you.
Tesa says
I’m sorry to hear he’s struggling with this. My grandmother had the early stages of Alzheimer’s and it was tough. Your post is so touching. Hugs.
Nichol says
What a wonderful post. We have watched so many with Alzheimer’s. Horrible disease that does just that robs those of what they were. Hugs!
Danielle says
Love you Brett! So sweet. 🙂
Pam says
What a beautiful tribute to your father, Brett, and what a great daughter you are!
Janel C. says
That’s such a great song. It’s amazing how life seems to go around in a circle and we’re able to give back to those that have loved and helped us.
JulieK says
oh my gosh. this is such an awesome post. So sweet. and so true… I know I’m not in the same place you’re at with your parents, but I know I will be one day… and love will get us through it!
Beautiful thoughts!! HUGS!
amy says
<3
Dana says
Great post, Brett. Alzheimer’s is such a challenging disease…we went through it with my grandmother for several years. Sending many positive thoughts your way.
Skye says
Beautiful Brett… Simply beautiful post.