About
I have lived in Myakka City all my life -- on the same road, the same property, and in the same house.Until November 10, 2000, I lived with my Mom, my Dad, and my sister.My Dad was the greatest Dad anyone could ever ask for. Even when he had just gotten home from work, and had a lot of paperwork to do, he would drop everything to take me fishing.
My Dad had a great outlook on life, and always had something positive to say. He liked and got along with everyone in our community. And no matter how many questions I asked, or how much I asked of him, it never made him mad.
On November 11, I found out my life would never be the same -- ever again.That day, I awoke to hear my Mom crying. Then I realized what had happened. My Dad died in his sleep.
I remember thinking to myself that day, "This is a really bad dream -- I just wish that I'll wake up soon." After about 48 hours, I started to really consider that it was not a dream.People started coming to my house. One after another, they came with everything from homemade pies and soups to toilet paper. We began getting sympathy cards in the mail, with money in them. I didn't understand why people gave us checks -- we hadn't done anything for them. I think they just wanted us to know that they cared.
At my Dad's memorial service, the little church was packed. Some people even had to stand outside because there was no more room. That is when I realized how many people really cared.
That's also when I realized how this community can come together for each other.People came to our house, and saw that we were in need of a new porch. For about four Saturdays, every week, these people came and worked on our porch.They also put a new roof on our house.These people are true friends. I just want to let them know that I really appreciate their efforts. Since my family now has a new roof and porch, we are doing just fine.
This is my Myakka City -- a great community. I wouldn't want to live anywhere else.
