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Previous Challenge Entry (Level 3 - Advanced)
Topic: LOVE (agape and/or phileo) (03/12/15)
Dear brother,

Since we last talked I've discovered the initial assessment was far too optimistic and even after seven sessions of treatment my testicular cancer has spread at a surprising rate. The consultant has given me only a couple more months to live.

I want to see you before it's too late.

Firstly, I want to start by saying sorry. I am sorry I got all the attention from Dad as we grew up. I guess I needed his help and support in a more practical way than you ever seemed to. I always saw you as a success at whatever you did. I am sorry if I stole his time from you, it was not intentional. I was happy when I heard you became a thoracic consultant. You have worked hard and deserve all the recognition you receive.

As you know, we were both brought up in the church, both went to Sunday school, both went to the church's youth activities. When we were younger we did many of the same things, even fancying the same girl if I recall. That was until Mum died and you distanced yourself from all things God-related. I am sorry for the arguments we had. After the death of my son two years ago I also turned away from God, so I can totally understand the reasoning behind your earlier decision.

Bro, it's strange how having to evaluate your own mortality teaches you what's really important. It has helped me see that spending all my time working, is eventually worthless. Your employer will replace you in weeks while for families you are essential and irreplaceable.

I am now a broken, incomplete man. My health has deteriorated but my fight and thirst for life are as strong as ever. This 'saintly idiot,' as you used to call me, really needs to sort our relationship out before it's too late. - I am sorry for turning into a religious fraud. I knew all the right clichés to say but in the last few months my faith has changed. You were right, a relationship with God is more important than all the 'Holy wallpaper' we cover our religion with. I do not blame God for this cancer and I do not want you to blame Him either.

I would love you to take these words not in any judgemental way but my sincerest desire to pass on my brotherly love before it is too late.

John

.........................................................................................................................................................

My dearest twins, if youre reading this letter then Mummy thinks youre old enough.


My lovely five year olds, as I sit here writing this letter to you, you're both sound asleep. I always love going into your rooms while you sleep and hearing your soft breathing, even your tossing and turning makes me smile. I love being able to protect you and keep you safe. I sometimes hold your hand and pray over you. My little ones, I promise I will continue to pray for you from Heaven.

I am sorry that I will not be there to help you with your homeworks, or teach you both to drive. My daughter, I am sorry I will not be there to give you away when you get married. To you both I pray that you make good Christian choices as you mature into a man and woman of God. When you think of me, know I loved you more than I could love anyone.


Dad.

.............................................................................................................................................................

To my loving wife.

I am sorry that I could not beat this cancer. It has stolen many wonderful years from us. I am proud of our children and the ten terrific years we had together. I am grateful God brought us together. Thankyou, my love, for never ceasing to pray for me when I turned away from God.

I'm truly blessed God made you.

On a practical note, our solicitors have my will and insurance policies. The twins each have a significant trust fund. I would love for you to remember me as a loving husband and father. You’re still a young lady. If God should bring a God fearing, honorable man into your life you have my blessing to move on. I pray he will be a good father to our children.

It is time I go and spend some time with our other son. I am sure he can play hide and seek with me in Heaven.

John.


Authors note.


This article is fiction but as a father and husband have written what I would write if I had a terminal illness.
The opinions expressed by authors may not necessarily reflect the opinion of FaithWriters.com.
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This article has been read 710 times
Member Comments
Member
Date
Brenda Rice
03/19/15
Revealing, touching and so very real. Great writing.
C D Swanson 
03/20/15
Teary-eyed here. Wow- creative and powerful approach to the topic at hand. Touching and filled with love.

God bless~
LaVonne Wood
03/21/15
Very sad letters I hope you never have to write. I think more Christans need to believe for divine health and healing.

Cancer is terrible, but not too hard for God to heal.

Blessings, LaVonne
Judith Gayle Smith-Owens Vitouswykegardinerclark
03/24/15
So moving and heart-grabbing. I have to run back to your bride's entry to recapture my giggleosity.