I talk to my parents every day. That might be more than the average person, but I do have the advantage of being able to strike up a conversation with them at any time, in any place. As I have written before, my mom and dad were the best parents any kid could have and even though I lost my dad twenty-seven years ago (the day after our oldest son’s first birthday party) and my mom nine years ago (definitely does not seem that long), I still miss them terribly and need them. I was an unabashed Daddy’s Little Girl. Which is why I talk to them everyday. I especially bombard them during difficult times. And I’m sure they just love that…
But what sparked this post, was a sudden flashback that occurred while I was quietly sitting in the back seat of our car on the way to a movie (the position to which I’ve been relegated since the boys have been home), lost in my thoughts, when I noticed the license plate of another car one lane over. My breath caught in my throat when I saw the number on the plate: 1526. An ordinary number to most, but my eyes began to well-up at the sight. I hadn’t thought of that number in years. I immediately texted my brother, Paul, to confirm. And, without delay, he responded that, yes, that was the number alright. Fifteen-twenty-six was a venerated number in our home growing up. It was my dad’s star number. He was a Chicago Police Sergeant and proudly wore that star for thirty years. After his death, my brother, Tom, had a necklace made for my mom with a CPD star pendant and, you guessed…it was star #1526. Paul and Tom have since followed in our dad’s footsteps, honorably serving the people of Chicago. And, devotedly worn on Tom’s uniform, is Star #1526. My dad’s star. I remember, when my dad would leave for work, he’d give me a kiss and I’d tell him to “get the bad guys.” In his uniform. With that star.
Death may separate us physically from our loved ones, but never in spirit. And, sometimes, we even get a physical reminder of their beloved memory. Love you and miss you Mom and Dad, but you already know that. I tell you everyday.
As a post-script to this, I wanted to share with you, in the words of legendary radio personality Paul Harvey, “the rest of the story”. My brother, Tom, retired from the Chicago Police Department in November of 2013, resulting in a temporary pause in the life of Star #1526. Until a few months later, that is, when a new class of police officers was promoted to the rank of Sergeant, including my younger brother, Paul. The star had been re-issued to another new Sergeant, but when she heard the history of that number, she happily surrendered it to him. So now, that Star…that Number…lives on as the third Chicago Police Sergeant in my family proudly pins it to his uniform every day. And that’s the rest of the story. And a pretty cool one at that…
Life on a Box Wine Budget 
Wow! Great post Mayo! A lot of memories going through my little mind right now : ) Thanks
Glad you liked it Kev. Like I said, it’s always kind of scary to put something so personal out there, but it feels great to think that someone thought it was good!
That was beautiful, Marilyn! Your dad would be so proud to see how you and your brothers honor his memory.
Thanks, Maureen. That means a lot to me. I’m always a little worried about my public blubbering, but it makes me feel better when I receive positive feedback.
This is beautiful Marilyn. I just called Paul and read it to him. He was very touched. I think it made his terrible night more tolerable.
I also speak to my parents every day. I miss them borh terribly.
Thanks Maria. I hope Paul didn’t think it was too sappy… Sometimes, I just kind of let the mood take me where it will. I’m happy you both liked it.
Marilyn- I love reading all of your posts. You are so eloquent and wise.
Wow, Ginger, thanks. You might regret saying that if you read my latest post today!!!
Mayo…You outdid yourself. My absolute favorite article. I periodically dig it from the archives and read it from time to time. It brings back such wonderful memories.
Tom
Thanks Tom! Usually my favorite posts are the ones that come to me out of the blue, like that one. I’m glad you liked it. It’s nice to have this forum to share memories of Mom & Dad 🙂 Thanks for being my biggest fan (& spread the word – I love when people check out my site).
Great post!! Happy to hear of Tom’s retirement and Paul’s promotion to Sgt. A great family story to be sure!
Thanks Jan 😊
It’s always nice to read comments & get some feedback, Jan, so I really appreciate that
Very nice, Marilyn – a touching tribute to your family.
Thanks Denise. I appreciate your reading & commenting on my posts 😊
That is the perfect addendum to a great story.
The star is back home…where it belongs.
That’s right Tom 🙂
Another lovely tribute to your dad, Marilyn! Wish I’d had the privilege of knowing him and your mom.
Oh thank you for your kind comment! I’m so glad you liked it ❤️