Moments of perfection

My grandmother and grandfather, during a family gathering last Christmas.

My grandfather died last Thursday, just a day before his 89th birthday. A kind, caring family man, my grandfather lived his almost-89 years to their fullest. His life and actions serve as a model for the life well-lived.

At his memorial service on Monday, my cousin Deb told a story about my grandfather’s craftsmanship. My grandfather, Buddy as everyone called him, was installing an air conditioning unit, with the help of his brother. Buddy measured and measured, and then cut a hole in the wall for the unit. Despite his brother’s doubt that the appliance would fit, my grandfather was certain that the hole was the right size. And, when the moment came, the air conditioner fit precisely, without a hair’s space. A simple act, but Deb delighted in the moment, which she watched as a young girl, “You didn’t need any foam or tape to cover the holes around the air conditioner. It was perfect.”

She went on to say, “In this life of imperfection, there are moments of perfection.”

Her story of my grandfather touched me deeply, and led to my own recollections of his life, which was so full, so well-lived. He was married to my grandmother for 68 years, had 6 children, and dozens of grandchildren and great grandchildren, along with a host of friends and extended family members. He was a vital support in our community. He was an artist, a photographer, a craftsman. He was creative, kind, and interested in whatever you were doing. So many moments of perfection he witnessed in his 89 years; so many moments of perfection he helped to create for his family and friends.

While talking with my Uncle Danny after the service, he remarked, “I can only hope to live a life that full.” He tapped the table, and our eyes both welled with tears.

Indeed, Pop-pop knew how to live alive. He knew that in order to experience moments of perfection, one had to work hard to make it happen. Whether he was installing air conditioners or spending time with his family, he put his entire self into the task. While I may not be an artist, and my carpentry skills are woeful, I strive to find those moments of perfection in triathlon and running. As I prepare for the Vermont 50 ultramarathon, I know I’ll have some company, running side by side with my Pop-Pop to cheer me on.

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