Lessons Learned From Opa

There once was a larger than life, red-headed man with a smile as big as the ocean and a laugh that sounded like the choir. He was put on this earth to love and to be loved. He made his mark through these lessons he passed down.

"Always be prepared" may be a Boy Scout Motto, but I knew a man who lived and breathed this creed.

Each summer, the faded old station wagon would get weighed down with fishing gear, food, and everything else under the sun. All this was in preparation for the trip to Maine.

I participated in this pilgrimage several times growing up. As I sat in the passenger’s seat, with fishing rods poking at my head and tackle boxes nibbling at my feet, the thought would cross my mind: Why in the world do we need all this junk? But sure enough, someone would get a cut or a sprained ankle and the first aid kit would get fished out of the trunk. Or, the old magazines stuffed into a brown paper sack would come in handy during that lengthy 10 hour drive.

Now, as an adult, when I pack for a trip, I do my best to "Always Be Prepared."

The infamous words, “say cheese” could often be heard from a neighboring room. Grudgingly, my cousins and I would complain at being pulled away from an intense game of hide-and-seek, to “pose for the camera.” Looking at those faded pictures now brings a smile to my face because I know the man behind the camera had already learned this lesson: capture life’s moments no matter how small.

Everyone jokes about the long letters they received from Charlie. At times, these letters were often untidy and difficult to read. But, once deciphered, they were considered a treasure. For these letters contained words of encouragement and wisdom. Staying in touch with his family and friends was a vital part of his existence. Wtih 11 children, 26 grandkids, and 10 great-grandchildren, this was a full time job. Yet, he always made "the rounds" and contacted each of us every other month or so. He wanted to stay informed, to be in the loop. He was often my biggest fan.

This man I'm speaking of was married. Together, he and his wife had eleven children. Growing up, family dinner was always important and giving thanks before each meal was not optional. He led his family in devotions, held elaborate family parties, and believed in the importance of family chores. Not only this but he opened his home to the neighbors and his children's friends. Everyone knew they were welcome in Charlie's home. I'm sure their were many luxuries he desired to have but family was more important to him than a shinny new car or wearing the latest fashion. I only hope that I can walk in his footsteps.

This red-headed, larger than life man, passed away on September 12, 2011 from Burkitt’s lymphoma. He was Charles Bauerlein, my Grandfather. I called him "Opa." During his 84 years on this earth, he touched many lives and the legacy of his lessons will carry on.