June 8, 2015
Family Ties are the  Knot that Holds Us Together

The Circle of Life is a term we've all heard about.  But  never has it been more evident than the last week that I spent with my family on our annual gathering at the lake when, on the last night of a week  spent together, a spontaneous ring of unity formed in thankful togetherness on the last night that we were to share.  Hand in hand, it was a moment not long to be forgotten.

For the last fifty years this family of mine has gathered in the northern lakes of Minnesota for a week of family and fun and fellowship.  In that span of time memories have been made, friendships and bonds forged, and history made.  This past week was by far no exception to the rule and has created memories that will forever remain in our hearts.

It was momentous, that gathering, when three generations gathered one last time for the week and joined hands in celebration before enjoying a feast on the last evening together. Yes it was a "pot luck" or "pitch in" like my Ohio cousins called it, that brought us all together after a week of fishing and vacationing  together.  We joined hands, three generations,  in an ever-growing circle and gave thanks that we could be there to share, to experience, and to appreciate the history and family that has brought us to and held us all together through the years.

I couldn't help but feel a magical tingle of excitement as I joined that circle knowing that my family, as diverse and complex as it is, was gathered in unity.  

Through the decades, since 1963, my family has come together to share one week every other summer.  In that time there have been great losses and  many gains.  It is the losses that are of course deeply felt.  This year we recognized a dearly loved uncle's passing and the loss of a great aunt and grandmother that happened that very week.  But together we shared the loss and celebrated their lives and what they meant to each of us.  

The losses are deeply felt yet at the same time, new life is celebrated.  Time marches on and new life continues the cycle. It is the ability to look back and cherish the times gone by that is the supreme gift.  When traditions are carried on and when the past is honored it is the greatest legacy imaginable.

As we stood that night,  hand in hand, I felt the spirit of those dear ones who have come before us in our very midst.  And that gave me somehow the strength to move on and embrace life. 

Life - family, it is a bond beyond which we cannot fathom.  Embrace and celebrate. And never forget.  Carry on your legacy and you will never regret.