i am so grateful for my family.after you lose both parents, you can splinter apart like planets cut lose from gravity, spinning off in opposite directions. in the gap between losing, you may, if you're lucky, learn there really is no misunderstanding too deep to reach across.
Eileen - What a beautiful sentiment! So very, very wise. When I was a practicing attorney, my focus was estate planning and probate. I always found it so sad how many families would be permanently split apart over money and/or childhood squabbles. When all was said and done, we'd like to think folks could still enjoy Thanksgiving dinner around the same table and be grateful.
ReplyDeletewhat a fascinating range of experiences you must have accumulated! i guess you saw people at their best, and worst. my brother has emerged as the family hero (he's the only boy in a family of 6) for stepping up to the plate to insist -- not remind -- his sisters that we have no time to waste, and he's determined the "family regrets" chapter ends here. he's my baby brother (tho much taller!) and i can't tell you how proud i am of him. he, and his wife, have brought about a sea-change for a family that was until recently still reeling from losing our mom in 2002 and our dad in 2004. are your folks still alive (she asked, fingers crossed for YES)
ReplyDelete