By Tom Alberti

Standing at the monument, I feel a heavy weight on my chest. Tears stream down my cheeks, just as they did twenty-one years ago. A chill runs down my spine, contrasting with the scorching sun that bathes my body. The gentle fall breeze brushes against my skin, barely noticeable. With a sense of reverence, I take off my Yankees cap, a memento from twenty-one years ago, when I eagerly expected my father’s return and our trip to the Yankees ballgame.

As my hand touches the engraved letters of my father’s name, memories flood my mind. Memories of fishing trips, of playing catch in our backyard. He was the one who taught me to be kind to others, to have courage, and to live not just by words, but by actions. He encouraged me to pursue my dreams. However, he never taught me how to live without him.

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Tom Alberti is a retired health worker. He had published on 101 word.com and self-published three crime books and one children’s  picture book.