It's not so strange that nobody came to speak to Cathy as they likely had no idea who she was. Most people are uncomfortable at funerals anyway and who wants to go strike up a conversation with a woman they've never met? The important thing is that dad is finally making an effort. Sure, he;s got alot of past to atone for, Cathy is right to remain skeptical, but for her own peace of mind she has to see what will happen. Maybe, finally, the two of them can become a real family. It's a shame it couldn't happen earlier, the time that's been lost can never be replaced, but at least it is happening.

I was fortunate, I was able to make peace with my father several years before he passed away. My mother had not been happy with my decisions, but was at least accepting; my father was actively hostile for years. But my dad and I had a couple of good years, and I wouldn't trade that for anything. Now that he is gone, my mother and I are able to share those last good years and put the pain of the ones prior to that behind us. Hopefully Cathy can have some good years with her father, even if she lost the chance with her mom.

The Moody Blues have a song with the line "You can never go home anymore" and that's true in a way; you can't go back home. But you can go forward to a home that's hopefully better.

Karen J.