Did You Ever Get To Edinburgh? A true story of love, loss and the importance of family By Richard M. Haviland
It had been seven weeks since the search to find my father had begun. Each day without uncovering new information dimmed my hopes of finding him. Then, a letter arrived.
At first, all I could do was stare at the return address on the envelope that might hold a message of pain, disappointment or reconciliation. Trying to open the letter that could fill a missing part of my life, I couldnt get my fingers to work, to stop trembling. Finally able to peel it open, I pulled the letter out and began to read it aloud so my wife and child could share the moment.
Dear Richard,
I am your father. How wonderful to hear from you and know that you are well. Looking at the date on your letter, you must have been discouraged and frustrated with the lack of a response. My wife and I have been on a two month trip to Europe and just returned last Saturday night. When I opened the mail on Sunday morning, your letter was waiting for me. I tried to call you right away but was told by directory assistance that you had an unlisted phone number.
There were two ironies or twists of fate about the timing and opening of your letter, depending upon your perspective about life and faith. The first was the fact that during our trip we were in Edinburgh, Scotland, and while there toured the castle and walked the campus of the university. I remembered having been told that you were considering graduate studies there and wondered, did you ever get to Edinburgh?
The second and perhaps greatest irony or miracle is that I opened your letter on Fathers Day. How fitting and special! I have always loved you and felt an emptiness in not seeing you grow up or being part of your life. Our time together that Christmas and your birthday have remained my fondest memories of the only times we shared. Fortunately, some members of your family kept me informed of your progress, and I knew you were doing well. It was clear you were a son to be proud of.
The letter went on to tell me about his new family and life.it closed with:
There is so much to say and talk about. Please know that I have always cared. I realize that may seem to be a very hollow phrase, given what you have been through these past years. I ask you to please write or call me at (810) 555-2477. I have missed you.
Love, Dad
Reading the letter over and over, I felt like a child again. Four remarkable words, I am your father, had brought us back together. But the letter raised new questions, ones that were puzzling and disturbing. Who in the family had kept him informed but never told me? Had my own family kept me from my father without my ever knowing? What revelations would finding my father lead to? Why had he left in the first place?
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