Friday, October 25, 2013

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.




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