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Scraps and scribbles from 1960 - 2015 |
| It was not our proudest moment but it was one of the memories we talked about literally for a lifetime. Someone forgot to turn off the radio that was playing in the background before we sat down at the dinner table. We were packed around our parents' large table at Thanksgiving. It was a beautiful day and the weather was especially mild for a Fall day so late in the season. As Mom began to seriously and graciously give thanks to the Almighty for a bountiful meal, softly in the background we hear “There she was, just a walkin’ down the street, singin’ do-wa-ditty-ditty-dum-ditty-do” coming from the the forgotten stereo speakers. Joe’s knees pressed against mine started to shake and we both started to giggle – that muffled suppressed giggle when you know that to laugh aloud would land you in serious trouble with your elders. We tried, oh we tried, but we couldn’t contain ourselves. The juxtaposition of serious prayer with silly music and the aroma of a Thanksgiving meal we just wanted to devour were too much for my brother and me. Shoulders shaking with laughter and fervently wishing Mom would end her prayer, we burst into full blown gales of giggles as soon as we heard Mom say “Amen”! And of course, Joe looked at Mom who was now glaring at both of us, pointed a finger at me and simply said, “She started it”. And in case you are wondering, yes, Mom believed him and I got the “You should know better” speech. But between muffed laughter and mock indignation, we both managed to enjoy an amazing turkey dinner. Our family always came together at mealtime and it was often a raucous event in a friendly and loving environment. It never ceased to amaze me how my parents always found room for one more at the table. Or how Joe teased us all as we feigned indignation, but secretly enjoyed the banter. My brother’s larger than life persona always grabbed attention, and his kindness brought people together in difficult and familiar situations. His twinkling blue eyes revealed his amusement with life and his happiness with his wife Linda. It is beyond my comprehension that I will never hear his laugh again or have him annoy me as only a sibling can, or see the smile in his eyes. It is also beyond my comprehension that I have lost all members of my biological family in the last six years. I am beyond grateful for my children and my extended family and friends. My childhood partner in crime has left this Earthly plane but his memory languishes in musical melodies soaring through his beloved woodlands on eagle wings. You left behind a treasure trove of memories and family and friends who love and miss you beyond words. Your life ended too soon, Joe, but you made the world a better place by your presence. And the promise of Isaiah will be yours: “… they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” Touch the sky Joe, fly with the eagles. You are free from earthly bounds. Go with God. tuc 11/4/2015 |
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