I am remembering my dear friend's father who passed away a few years ago this week. I called him Dad too. That's how close our friendship was — and has remained — all of these years.
His wake was a happening. Children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and a host of life-long friends filled the room to remember Dad, reconnect with one another, share stories and celebrate his life. The line seemed endless as folks waited to pay their respects.
It turns out that Dad was in the same high school class as my real dad, and they were life-long friends as well. It's one of those things I took for granted when I was young. How rare these kinds of friendships are. Many families have become more mobile and spread out. This kind of familial friendship is just not the norm these days.
I'm a little slow on the draw, but so glad that I finally realize how fortunate I have been to be blessed throughout my life with these close ties.
Soon the turkey and dressing will be in the oven. The pies will be cooling. Our tables will be full of traditional Thanksgiving dishes and fall flowers. Our homes will be filled with yummy smells, loved ones, conversation and our own little community. We will take time to give thanks and appreciate the abundance that surrounds us. For at least one day we will remember that we have all we need and some to share.
May we cherish the spirit of Thanksgiving and extend it for the days, weeks and months to come. May we experience fully the gift of grateful hearts as we return to our daily rounds.
