I had my dad for 49 1/2 years. I have friends that lost their dads at 25, 30, 35. I got to enjoy those years. I received his guidance through those years. My friends buried their fathers too soon. Times in life when fathers become friends. My dad saw me struggle and succeed. He saw me marry the man who loves and takes care of me. He saw my son become a hard-working, incredible man. I can't wallow in self-pity when I look at what I've lost. My son and I revel in who we are because of him, and the fact that he was here to witness it.