“Since before I could remember, my Mum and Dad set a precedent in our home of regular sincere encouragement. It was unlikely that any small task of goodwill would pass without a letter or word of praise being given in return. It was this environment that taught me the power of expressing any kind words that passed through my mind.
My Dad was unwell my entire life. At the time I wrote my tribute to him, he was recovering from yet another medical set back. I wanted to let him know how much I admired, respected and appreciated him while he was there to hear me say it. When I read to him how much I appreciated everything he’d done for me, the look on his face confirmed that a few simple words on a piece of paper was the best gift I could have given him. I will be eternally grateful to my parents for teaching me the power of encouragement. At the day of my Dad’s funeral, it made the day so much easier knowing that he had already heard every word that I said in my eulogy. I’m so thankful I wrote my tribute and got to say it to his face!”

Ben Bray

Author: Nikki Bray