It is often said that as you get older, you become more of who you really are. As dad's life came to an end, I wondered how he would be. Would he become bitter, fearful, selfish, or turn inward. What we saw these last months was dad full of gratitude, grateful for every little thing the nurses did, no matter how much they poked and prodded, he would reply with kindness and appreciation. He was clever and witty and thoughtful and considerate. I remember guarding the hospital doorway many nights as he would otherwise walk to the hallway to aid fellow patient's calls for help. He was a servant, shepherd, protector, and encourager to so many of us, yet he didn't know it- and he is my dad.