Passing Relative and Refections

A few months back, I reached out in my email newsletter (click on my “connect” tab and fill out the form to join) with a prayer request for my Pa, who was undergoing hospice evaluation. Shortly after sharing my request, I received the news of his passing. While the absence of my Pa here on earth is felt, I am thankful that I will see him again in heaven one day. His passing and the approach of the holiday season, notably Thanksgiving, has caused me to pause to reflect. If you don't mind, I'd like to take a moment to share a story about my Pa which occurred on Thanksgiving day many years ago. 

I come from a blended family, at the age of ten I was given a bonus family when my father re-married. I was a very shy and scared kid when it came to interacting with my “new” family. I began to learn new traditions that my family loved to celebrate and participate in. One being flash light tag on the night of thanksgiving.

At first, I was hesitant to join in, feeling like an outsider looking in. But as the night went by, the game became to enticing to turn away from. I had many older cousin who were far superior to my abilities and my Pa quickly came to my aid. He helped me jump on the top of a truck and hide under a large tarp away from any peering eyes as he hid right below me in the passenger side of the car.

I felt like two conspiring criminals as we passed glances back in forth before we saw the light and sound of footsteps approaching. My heart raced as I held my breath, trying to stifle any noise that might give us away. The footsteps grew louder, and I could feel the thrill of the moment intensify. Pa gave me a reassuring wink, silently reminding me that we were in this together.

When the flashlight finally reached the truck, its beam shone directly on Pa, instantly revealing him despite his valiant attempt to camouflage himself. I feared I would be seen at any moment. However, Pa had a different strategy in mind. He diverted my cousin's attention away from the truck, thereby preventing my discovery.

It was in that moment, hidden away under the tarp I knew my new grandfather had my back. As the game continued, I felt a newfound sense of confidence and belonging. No longer an outsider, I was now an active participant, sharing in the excitement and camaraderie of the evening. And though the game would eventually come to an end, the memories created that night still remain.

I am grateful for the memories I have with my loved ones, reflecting on them fills me with appreciation for our traditions, no matter how big or small. I'm curious about your Thanksgiving celebrations – perhaps you enjoy unique games or maybe you share expressions of gratitude among each other before dinner. Whatever your traditions may be, let's cherish the special moments we share with one another and be thankful for every moment we get.

Happy Thanksgiving!