What can I say about a man who lived selflessly and poured his soul into two children that he made his own? His very death hurled me into a higher spiritual orbit and exposed me to a treasure chest of intellectual and spiritual wealth.

I often feel his presence, still comforting, supporting and guiding me. I hear the words of Bette Midler's song, "Wind Beneath My Wings", as I flip through photos of him, see horses, a big Mercedes Benz, a basketball game, cowboy boots or designer shoes. I remember how he'd dance around the house shuffling his feet like Muhammad Ali while we chased him around. It seems like yesterday when he'd eat everything I cooked from a recipe I learned in Home Economics class. He'd sit there and laugh while I pretended I was on a cooking show.

Since his passing on January 17, 2008, I've avoided this topic in my blogs and writings. I just couldn't find the words to describe the amazing man, my brother, mother and I affectionately call, Doob; the man who was our dedicated father, hero and motivator.

I remember him calling me this time last year telling me how strong and smart I am and how confident he was that my brother Kevin and I would be alright. He said that he and our mother always focused on making sure that we were equipped to be successful in life. He said, in his jovial, comforting voice, "Sis, I know y'all gon be alright". As I listened, I wasn't sure what he meant or why he called and chose those particular words. Today the purpose for the call and the meaning of those words is ever so clear.

My brother and I were just 9 months and 2 years old, respectively, when he decided that he was going to love my mother and make her kids his own. We never questioned God's master plan who used biological DNA from one source and spiritual DNA from another. "This is a package deal", my mother told him; and he agreed to the terms and never wavered from that commitment.

I appreciate wealth, goodness and the finer things in life because of him. When I saw the people from all walks of life, cultures and backgrounds that came to celebrate his life and homegoing, I understood my passion for those treasures. I see a piece of him in all the lives he touched. He had the courage to be a pioneer and a trendsetter. As children, we are all fortunate to each have divinely crafted traits of him. I am forever grateful to him for helping to guide me in the right direction and allow me to experience the infinite love of a beautiful man.

I'm convinced that he's still with me, guiding and protecting my soul. I feel even closer to him in death than I did when I could pick up the telephone and call him. I can't say that I completely understand life after death, or what happens to the spirit or soul when it transitions. What I know for sure is that he continues to remain a very active participant in my life.

John E. Nared, Sr. rest in peace, knowing that your life produced riches that will make a difference in the world. Your legacy lives on.