I have never been timid about my struggles with heaven, religion and who God is – it’s been a problem I have been trying to solve for many years. Ive grappled with every fiber of my being on this subject, but I have yet to receive a clear answer. However, I do find occasional peace while talking to my dad about his faith. He doesnt overload me with advice; I suppose this is why I am able to verbalize with him so honestly. I know for a fact he doesnt hold the answers that I am looking for, but his absolute faith is an inspiring force that has gotten him to a plateau of comfort he has found at the sunset of his life. Most nights, it’s nearly impossible to gather the entire family for dinner. There’ll be a straggler here or there, but the evenings of five or six people around the table at suppertime are long gone. Throughout every stage of life, I have discovered that there are new treasures that will show themselves with time. Kate and I are in the transition of our world becoming smaller. We knew it was coming, but you’re never quite ready for the “lonely nest”. We were so diligent about preparing the boys for independence that I guess we mustve forgotten to prepare ourselves. There have been tears privately shed from us both. I know this is true. However, last night, the house was at full capacity. There was a log on the fire and the sounds seemed happier than usual. I closed my eyes as I listened to the banter, the laughing that would break through the clinking noises of dinner, and all I heard was a symphonic moment of family and love. It filled every ounce of me with genuine happiness – I felt complete once again. In the midst of all of the excitement, it occurred to me that it was time to start a new McLeod Family tradition. As a kid, it was routine to bow our heads while my dad said a prayer just before we started eating. I wasnt sure what the family’s consensus of the idea would be, but I decided to just go for it. “I think we should start all family dinners with a prayer. What do you guys think?” I felt so proud when there wasnt a single moment of thought needed before the resounding approval from all. When I asked who wanted to take the honors, the room got silent. This was a flaw I hadnt fully considered, especially since my boys rarely pass up an opportunity to talk. I was grateful when Satchel’s girlfriend broke the silence and started saying grace. She asked that He bless our food and thanked Him for the family that she has quickly become a part of. It was sweet and marked the perfect start for a beautiful new family tradition. The rest of the evening was filled with debates, laughter, and solving a good chunk of the world’s problems. Good company and a simple meal turned into a truly magical night – and it all started with a prayer. It felt like home, like family. Amen I hope everybody’s week is coming along smashingly. Let’s talk again tomorrow. I’ll bring the coffee. -Ruth
Posted on: Thu, 22 Jan 2015 21:50:40 +0000
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