Kees Speelpenning

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Kees Speelpenning, about 1937

Kees Speelpenning, about 1970

December 3, 2000
Dear Dad,

After all these many years after your death I am surprised to discover that there was still something incomplete between us.  For so long I've been present to my love and admiration for you that I thought everything was handled.  I now see I've been pretending that I "know" how you would think of me now, and that you'd disapprove in some way.  That you would let me know, in your quiet way, of some ideal I wasn't living up to, some further goal I should be aspiring to.
I have not allowed for the possibility that you might be completely supportive of me, proud of me, pleased with me, without reservation.
I will now take full responsibility for my ideals and goals and no longer burden you with holding those.  Your job is done, not only with me, but also with Jan and with Dick who was only 8 when you died, and who's doing great.

Thank you for your integrity and your wit and your strong sense of justice.
You taught me to read when I was 4 and it still is one of my greatest pleasures in life.  You taught me to always look beyond the surface, and sent me on a life-long exploration.

I love you Dad,
Bert