A Decade ago, I lost someone very dear to me and someone who is so special to me, and that is my grandfather Habib Torossian. He died just about a week and a half before his birthday on July 11. I remember the morning of June 30, 2002, when we got that terrible phone call, before 9am in the morning saying that My grandfather had passed away in his hospital bed at the nursing home. It was one of those days where my world shut down, crying my eyes out, and so much going through my head and I was so distraught and shocked at the same time. We sort of knew it was coming, but then again I was shocked. My grandfather meant the world to me, he taught me so many things about life, he taught me the importance of being in the Armenian community, among so many things, and he had such a wonderful sense of humour. I can still remember his smiling face, the way he used to sit, His voice, his touch, the way he cooked, the way he played backgammon. I mean who would forget those special moments I shared with him? I will never forget my sweet grandfather.
I remember going to several trips, picnics, camping, outings, dinners, get together, parties, among very great times with my beautiful cousins, and my mom, aunts and uncle.
My grandfather had a heart of Gold, he was so down to earth and put his family first above anything else. His passion for Armenia, His passion for writing, his passion for being in the Armenian community was so contagious. I think that is where I get it from. I visit the cemetery to see him once in a while, and I kiss his tomb stone and always tell him, “Dede”(means grandfather), in Armenian, so I would say, I miss you so much. This past year or so, My grandfather appeared in my dreams 5 times. It was so comforting to see his face once again. He was wearing all white. He is my Angel from above and I love him with all my heart. He is always in my heart and that is something that will never go away. I miss him terribly much. There is just so much I want to talk to him about, there have been so many things that he has missed in the past 10 years, but he is watching from above and watching over all of us. I love him and I wish there was a way to bring him back, but unfortunately, not. He will live on in our memories, and in our homes, in our lives forever. His soul and his goodness will never be forgotten. The fond and beautiful memories is so important to remember.To My dear grandfather Habib Torossian, I love you forever. I know heaven is a beautiful paradise and your there with other family members and friends who have passed, have a wonderful time together up there. God rest your soul, God keep shining light on you and among our loved ones who are not physically here with us today. One love. One Life. Kisses and Hugs Grandpa! I love you! Until we meet again. This is not goodbye. It’s see you later.
Talin Orfali Ghazarian 