It’s been a mixed time of family festivities as well as reflection and remembrance.
The month began with a happily anticipated visit from three generations of family from overseas and the joyful celebration of the wedding of my daughter. Day after day there was food, laughter, gentle ribbing, stories that began with ‘remember when…’ and new memories to be made and treasured. Everyone mucked in with meals, bedding, clean towels, ideas for sightseeing, and impromptu get-togethers, usually involving yet more food and laughter.
The rain and wind did nothing to dampen the spirits of the wedding guests and the clouds parted to allow the bride and her attendants to climb the steep drive to the country chapel without getting their finery spoilt. The wind even added to the occasion by providing wonderful photo opportunities as it whipped up the full-length veil, making an interesting contrast to the trees lining the driveway. It was a precious time to be talked about with warmth and pleasure.
A couple of days later we received notification that an aunt had passed away. Some of the relatives were already home and were able to attend her funeral and share the time of acknowledgement and special memories with her family.
The contrast between the occasions was clear, but the underlying themes of family, loving and caring were constant. The first one provided some of the glue that holds us together and allowed us to experience some of the special times that build a sense of identity and belonging. The second offered an opportunity to put these things into practice. Memories laid down in happy times were drawn on and savoured and the care and love of family sustained each person and gave a deep sort of strength that each could draw on in their own way.
May the memories you make today give you sustenance for the future.
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