Getting To Know Me

Yesterday evening I attended a 'harvest dinner' with my father.

It took place at his veterans hospital/home.

I got there early and took my seat at a table reserved for his

family. While waiting for the others to arrive, the large cafeteria

began to fill up with other veterans and their families.

It struck me immediately how eager and happy the veterans

appeared to be. They were smiling and all dressed up in their

finest with their family members assisting them through the maze 

of tables and chairs.

I couldn't help but feel a little sad at first. Sad because

these men and women are near their life's end.

All of these vets are in their late 80's and some well into

their 90's.

The sadness quickly changed to happiness for them

who, in spite of their maladies/disabilities, were truly excited

to be there and their energy was evident and palpable.

My brother arrived pushing Dad in his wheelchair.

Then two of my sisters were close behind.

Lastly my sister-in-law took her seat at the table.

The meal began with a wonderful maple squash pureed soup,

followed by turkey pot-pie which was very nice as well.

Dessert was an apple crisp cake with brown sugar syrup.

Yum.

This 'gathering' was a celebration of harvest-time.

It became much more than that.....

a celebration of the lives of these men and women.

Me, and my shadow this week.