Letter to Tommy
What a lucky man you are – What with a new body you can go for a walk or a jog or even a run . If you run don’t worry about getting sweaty – folks don’t sweat in Heavan . You got up this morning and didn’t have to mess with that splint I made you since you have been made whole-teeth and all .Didn’t even have to brush and floss since there is no plaque in Heavan.
Were you surprised at how good and youthful your Momma and Daddy looked? Does he still enjoy riding horses ? How was Dee? He’s been there a long time and can show you around .
Know by now you talked to Jesus . I know he is as cool and neat in person as he has been to us in spirit . Please say “hello” to him for me . I talked to him this morning and asked him to look after for you .
Boy , is Jim Davey going to miss you !! Now he will have to drink a beer alone when he comes back from his nightly beach walk. I am going to miss my visits with you. Coming to Myrtle Beach was so relaxing and effortless . Never had to think of what to say since you did all the talking !!!
Christmas and Labor Day (or is it July 4th) won’t be the same without you hosting Long Bay . Guess those events will morph into a memorial to you . What in the world is Bob Smith going to do with all his extra time now that he doesn’t have to cart your butt all over South Carolina ?
What about Westwood and our memories dating back 50 years? Tatum stories have and will remain a central focus of our get togethers. The trip to Canada with a side trip to the Kennedy complex at Hyannis Point – soggy popcorn soaked in lemon juice – 8 or was it 10 spoons of sugar in a cup of coffee ? the stories go on and on .
Long Bay will forever be changed by the “Tatum Touch ” Who now will be the central fabric that ties those guys together? Who will Elsa have to fuss over ? How will the “Meal-on-Wheels ” folks feel when they pass that empty house -or the postman (rather the post lady ) who didn’t just deliver the mail but came inside for a visit with arguably the finest role model in my life .
My how Ben Moore and Williams family will miss you ! Caring brother , benevolent uncle–you did it all.
Tommy , the grace with which your disability has been an inspiration to all who knew you . in the future when I get down I will say to myself ,”Straighten up and act like Tatum ,”Always up , never down – you will always be my role model !!!
your buddy,
P.D.
P.S. The next time you see Jesus thank him for putting you in my path .