Some say “time heals all wounds.” Not sure I agree. Goss, my grandfather would’ve been 94 today. He’s been gone for 20 years, I was 25 when he passed from this world. I think I miss him more now than ever before. Not a day goes by I don’t think of him in some way, and I mostly think about just how gracious he was in all things. His example of living a life of grace toward me, speaks to me louder today than it did during the first 24 years of experiencing it firsthand.
Man, I took it for granted. I just thought he was nice and that Goss was great at his role as grandpa. Having navigated a bit more of life myself these last 20 years into becoming a middle-aged man has given me newfound love and respect for how Goss lived, how he saw the world, and loved his family. I’m not sure if Goss thought all that much about grace, but I do know the example he set for me hasn’t faded with time. Just the opposite, his life of grace preaches deeper to me today than it ever did while he was living.
Goss kept life and others in perspective. I never once heard Goss tell me the shortcomings of another human, but I remember seeing his kindness to me, to his family, and to many others. If you were a kid in the community while Goss was working the Canton Post Office, the Midget Market, Cain’s, Kay-Way, or Macfarland's; you probably have a Goss story. Just the other day, I had an older gentleman tell me a story about Goss from when he was a kid and Goss showed him a simple act of kindness. I’ve met many of you over the last 20 years and love every one of these stories. They confirm what I knew and know of my grandfather. A small yet gracious giant of a man.
Happy Birthday, Goss! I’m so fortunate you were my grandpa, but even more grateful you showed me what real grace looks like. There is nothing more I’d rather do today than to share a pint and introduce you to your great-grandchildren. Your great-grandson shares your name and a lot of your looks. I hope he grows up to be a lot like you. You haven’t been around to show the way in this wild millennia we are in, but your life continues to echo in the chambers of my experiences. I can’t thank you enough, miss you, and love you always- Bryan