Anniversaries, Part 2

Yesterday, it rained all day. It seemed as if Heaven were crying for the whole world...it was a dark and dreary day, but I think maybe those "tears" were also for the joy of all the beautiful people born or celebrating relationships during this time of the year.  I used to get so wrapped up in the "death" of the month I'd forget how many friends I've come to know who celebrate life in November, too! I actually know at least three people who have a birthday today.

I have been delighted to read peoples' contributions to the Facebook "Thankful" challenge. It warms my heart to see people get in touch with what matters to them and to find ways to express it to others. It's contagious, too. I try not to "overpost" so I was going to limit myself to "Thankful Thursday" updates. Well, when you rediscover an attitude of gratitude, you soon find it's an overflowing sort of feeling, and it's nearly impossible to wait till an appointed time to share the goodness. Don't wait--be glad and make it known.

Today marks 20 years (that's right, ten years and a week to the day since my first grandpa passed) since my paternal grandfather went "home" for good. When that phone rang, and stopped, and rang again, we knew. I actually "knew" when I hugged him our last visit that it was our last visit, but it wasn't overly sad. It was a peaceful understanding that his body was simply wearing out and winding down. Our earthly bodies don't last forever, you know...mine will wear out someday, too.

I woke up with a bit of a headache and the temptation to snuggle back in with my cat. I managed to resist that temptation, partly because I did it yesterday without realizing it, and partly because I feel that one of the best ways i can honor the memory of my family members is to get up and get going. They worked hard their whole lives to do good work, provide for their families, and be a positive example of behavior for others. Their word was their honor and their deeds their witness to the world.

I celebrate the time I had with these people and the values they demonstrated in their daily lives. I embrace who I am, influenced by their examples and DNA, and hold them in my heart. I endeavor to live the kind of life they might have hoped for me, and like to envision them smiling on my growth and success along the way.