It was a beautiful evening for such a get-together. We had hot dogs on the grill, baked beans, chips, cold drinks, hot cider, hot chocolate. I lost count, but I think there were about 25 - 30 of us gathered together.
One of George's closest friends had shared with me a few times prior to this that it was difficult for him to be at George's place because it brought back so many memories. I suspected that some of the others felt that way too. So before the meal, I gathered everyone in a circle and asked that we join hands. I told them how much their friendship to George and now to us meant. I told them that we all had one thing in common and that was our love for George, and his love for each of us. I shared with them that I believed George was, in many ways, still with us and that he was watching us and was so happy to know we were enjoying being together at this place he loved so much. And then we prayed.
Eventually we loaded up on a trailer filled with bales of hay, and off we went. The kids had fun on this new adventure, as did the adults who remembered times past. We did get lost a time or two but with the help of the 9 year old (that's another story for another blog), we made it back to enjoy the big bonfire and sticky, messy, but very yummy s'mores. Memories were made. It was a great evening.
It was a special time, there were some tears, but there was laughter too. It was, I believe, an important step toward healing for all of us. Not a giant step, but a small step forward. I'll share more about that later. But for now, my friends, keep putting one foot in front of the other. Remember, there is going to be
Sunshine After the Storm
Blessings!
Betsy
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