Mike Rayburn sings "Cat's In The Cradle" -Tribute to his father.

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May 1, 2013. I know my Dad is going soon. But even for the rocky relationship and challenges he and I had, one Christmas I wanted a CB radio. He said no way. Instead he gave me a guitar, and changed my life forever. So tonight I sang him the first song I ever performed on stage, irony of ironies, "Cat's In The Cradle," and held the hand that taught me my first chords.

Let me say something about grace. I was always the one to confront Dad about the fatal dysfunction in our family. I forgave him completely many years ago and in recent years we've gotten along, though there were still issues. Bedridden now for 15 months, 2 months ago our last issues came to a head. I came to his bedside, just him and me alone, I listened to him, I countered what he said with the truth, directly, firmly, I never accused or condemned him, never got angry, but I also looked him straight in the eye, never blinked, never backed down. To his credit he faced the truth, accepted it, and repented for it. It was very emotional. I held his hand and through tears we each prayed, forgave, and beyond forgiveness we experienced grace. I believe grace is the single most powerful force on earth, precisely because it does not come from earth, it comes from God. It's the only way this world will heal, I know that. I love my father and I will miss him... and I am finally, very thankful for him. Peace. I love you, Dad.

Note:
I want to note that my sister, Kathi Melendez and her daughter, Andrea Vechery have taken care of Dad almost daily for years, so well and so lovingly, doing whatever needed to be done to serve and assist him. They're both angels.

In Memory of Charles (Charlie) Benjamin Rayburn, Jr. 1936-2013. Coach Rayburn.