I Still Can't Say Goodbye

Dad has suffered from dementia the last few years and so it has been some time since he and I had a real deep conversation. I came across this song in 2006 and it really struck a chord in my heart.

I have great memories of playing catch with a baseball, throwing a football, and playing PIG with the basketball. Christmas was always a great time. And I realize more and more how I always wanted to be like him.

Love you, Dad! This is NOT goodbye. Just a, "We'll see you later."

Song: I Still Can't Say Goodbye
Artist: Merle Haggard
Album: Chicago Wind

When I was young my dad would say,
"Come on son, let's go out and play"
Seems like only yesterday

When I was all by myself
I'd climb up the closet shelf
Find his hat and fix the brim
Pretending I was him

No matter how hard I try
No matter how many tears I cry
No matter how many years go by
I still can't say goodbye

He took good care of mom and me
We all cut down the Christmas tree
He always had some time for me

Wind blows through the trees
Street lights - they still shine bright
Most things are still the same
But I miss my dad tonight

I walk by the Salvation Army store
Saw a hat like my daddy wore
Tried it on and fixed the brim
Still trying to be like him

No matter how hard I try
No matter how many tears I cry
No matter how many years go by
I still can't say goodbye
No...