This year marks the 100th anniversary of the Good Year blimp.

The official anniversary date is June 3rd., when the first blimp, filled with hydrogen, lifted into the air. Six weeks later the blimp made its first ascent to the sky filled with helium. Its name? Pilgrim.

As we watched the golf tournament Sunday, I heard the announcer say something I needed to hear. It was in regard to the amazing life-span of this innovative, 20th century feat—“Look up and drive forward.” It reminded me of the encouragement my golf coach gave me years ago, “forward is good.”

I share all this because a significant event happened in my life last week that brought unexpected sadness.

Since my Mom passed in 2012, we have been property managers for her various places. Last week we sold the last property that held the longest memories for me.

Grand Opening circa 1961My 2nd birthday, circa 1961

The property was purchased in 1960. My parents built their dream—a 3,000 square foot building to house their neighborhood pharmacy with a barbershop next door.

Soda fountain circa early 60’s

Our family life was built around all the took place within those four walls. My dad served tirelessly the neighbors who became friends. He provided many medicines for free to those who didn’t have the money for their sick child. He did what was right and the people loved him for it.

My Dad

As I sat on the bare floor last week for the last time, all the memories came rushing back. Voices from the last 65 years were heard laughing at my dad’s jokes. Hamburgers sizzling on the grill for hungry patrons were constant. Children crying because they wanted candy and were told, “no”! Customers that I “rang out” at the cash register—my first job as a teen. So many precious memories.

What I didn’t expect was to feel fresh grief over the passing of my Mom (2012), Dad (2004) and brother (2021). The selling of this property felt as if I was letting go of the only thing we shared together growing up.

When I heard the motto of the Goodyear blimp, “Look up and move forward” I knew this was what was needed.

God has been so very good to all of us. The seeds sown of love for God and family, have taken root in my own family now. The building housed the life we shared. But now God was having me pack the memories in my heart, look up to Him for comfort and then move forward into the future.

Thankfully, the sadness lasted only a day, but the comfort He gives lasts a lifetime.