Numerous times over the years Angela asked me why I loved her. Sometimes I would give it some thought and answer her. Often I would simply reply, “I just do”. But she wanted and deserved more, and this answer tended to frustrate her. After she died I desperately regretted not telling her every single time she asked the many ways and the many reasons I loved her.

Unrelated to this I had asked my good friend and long time guitar teacher Emmeline if she knew anyone who could write songs from Angela’s inspiring book. She told me that she did. I asked who. Her reply made me laugh. She told me I could. Having never even contemplated writing a song in my life, I didn’t think it possible. But with Emmeline’s help, and by allowing the pain inside of me to have voice, the words came flowing out. The song didn’t turn out to be from Angela’s book, and it didn’t turn out to be a sad song as I had assumed it would be. Most surprising of all, it turned out to be the first of many songs to come. Songwriting has become instrumental in processing my grief. Writing this first song allowed me to answer her question, in a deep and meaningful way, and in a format that will last long after I’m gone. Perhaps even in a way she can hear it, certainly in a way my children can.

My dear sweet Angela, you always asked my why I love you; “I just do”. Turns out this was the most honest answer I could have ever given her. I was born to love her and always will.