A Celebration of Life for Hugh James Love
Today, we honor and remember the life of a great man, Hugh James Love (aka Kareem Abdul Wadood), my father. The third child of eight children, and first son.
I remember meeting my father for the first time after years of family disagreements, difficulties, and adversities. But, he made sure I understood that I was always in his heart, and on his mind. He was a caring, loving, and affectionate father. He would give you the shirt off his back.
Hugh James Love, LOVED.
He would always send me hand written letters when we were distant. So, I guess you could say my old man was, old fashioned. When I would visit him, I loved to take him to a store down the street from where he lived, just to get his favorite—a Black & Mild and a Red Bull…those, Mr. Love, Loved.
Over the last few months, father, your traits and characteristics have manifested in me, and, I thank God for that. They have made me who I am today, and I could not ask for anything better despite my flaws, and downfalls. My hair is even beginning to fall out as all of yours did, but, I will NOT hold that against you. After all, I have chosen to take your last name, “Love,” as my middle name. We’re ok, my old man.
Hugh James Love, LOVED.
Not a single materialistic item is sufficient enough to express my love and gratitude towards you, and how lucky I am to be your ONLY son from my mother.
So, I want you to know that, I am making you proud as you watch over me in heaven. You are in, a better state.
I learned that you considered joining the military in your younger days, father. So I want you to know also that, I have completed my military service for our country, on your behalf, and it has had a huge affect on my life, for the better.
You, are the embodiment of tenacity, grit, kindness (a heart of gold), and integrity.
To you, father, I dedicate this. “The one thing you have that nobody else has is you; your mind, your vision, your story, and your voice.”
May you continue watching over me as you have, father. May God have mercy on and forgiveness for your soul. And, may you and the angel that embraced you into its wings when you descended from a sacred bridge in Ohio, enjoy a Red Bull and Black & Mild, together, in God’s company.
I love you, Hugh James Love.
Your son, Shafi Love Goodwin.
Thank you.