Today, January 26th, is a day that feels both monumental and deeply personal. It marks my father’s book signing, an event that has been 10 years in the making, and it’s a milestone that also brings the memory of my mother to the forefront. In the photo taken this past Friday evening, my father stands proudly holding his book, Pathway Journey to Heaven, with my mother’s portrait watching over him in the background—a quiet yet powerful reminder of her enduring presence in our lives. As I reflect on this moment, I can’t help but wonder: What would she say to him today?

If my mother were here, I imagine she’d walk into the room with her characteristic grace, a proud smile lighting up her face. She would look at my father with love and admiration, and her first words would be, “Finally.” Not with frustration, but with joy and affirmation. She always believed in his gifts, in his brilliance, and in the power of the written word to inspire others.

She’d remind him that the delay wasn’t wasted. “God’s timing is perfect,” she’d say. “This book is being released exactly when it was meant to be, because someone today needs the message it carries.” She always had a way of reframing things with faith, of helping us see the beauty in God’s plan even when we couldn’t understand it.

She’d remind him, too, of the promise she made to him before she left us: that he has something the world needs. And knowing my mother, she’d use humor to lighten the moment, probably teasing him about how long it took to finish the book. “Now, let’s not wait another decade for the next one,” I can hear her saying with a playful grin.

But more than anything, I believe she’d want him to feel the weight of this moment—not as a burden, but as a blessing. She’d want him to know how proud she is, how proud we all are, and how much this day is a testament to his perseverance, his faith, and his willingness to step into his purpose, even after years of waiting.

My mother’s spirit has always been an encourager. She believed in people, in their potential, and in the power of their stories. And today, I feel her presence as I watch my father celebrate this achievement. I feel her whispering to us, reminding us to keep going, to trust the process, and to honor the gifts God has given us.

So, Dad, if Mom were here today, she’d say this:

“I’m so proud of you. You’ve carried on with strength and resilience. You’ve honored my memory, but more importantly, you’ve honored your calling. This is only the beginning. Keep going, keep writing, and keep sharing what God has placed in your heart. You are a blessing to this world, and today, we celebrate you.”

Her words remind us that it’s never too late to fulfill a dream, never too late to share our gifts, and never too late to leave a legacy that inspires others.

Bloom boldly.
Celebrate loudly.
And honor the journey.

In love and charity,

Giselle (aka) Blooming-lillie