I spent Thanksgiving Day yesterday with Sally's family in the small town of Haven, Kansas. We arrived at roughly 9:30 AM at the home of Sally's sister, Susan, and her husband, Phil, and drove back to Wichita some time after 11 PM. It was a very fast approximate thirteen hours of my life. Nothing incredible happened. Twenty-one adults, according to Betsy, official table setter, sat down to an unbelievable feast. Not included in that count were five children five and under including two under one year and not counting Luke and Amanda's unborn who is due in April. After the meal, we talked about what we are thankful for and then settled down to football games, reading, card games, talking, and desserts. It was very comfortable and very comforting. There was no anger and no alcohol. I wish some of my students would have the chance at least once in their lives to experience a holiday season free of drama and histrionics with those related by familial blood and the blood of Jesus. A number of years ago, I came across the following passage from a woman named Ernestine Schumann Heink which I think is as fine a definition of family as I've ever read. In face, I use it in the weddings I preach. I hope the families of the bride and groom mirror this passage. I know the family I spent Thanksgiving with does.
“A roof to keep out the rain. Four walls to keep out the wind. Floors to keep out the cold. Yes, but home is more than that. It is the laugh of a baby, the song of a mother, the strength of a father. Warmth of loving hearts, light from happy eyes, kindness, loyalty, comradeship. Home is first school and first church for young ones, where they learn what is right, what is good, and what is kind. Where they go for comfort when they are sick or hurt. Where fathers and mothers are respected and loved. Where children are wanted. Where the simplest food is good enough for kings because it is earned. Where money is not so important as loving kindness. Where even the tea kettle sings for happiness. That is home. God bless it.”
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1 comment:
I love the quote about family. If you don't mind, I may use it in a newsletter to the parents in my classroom. It amazes me how some family members live only 30 minutes from each other and they never see each other or even care to. My family lives all over the U.S. and I only get to see them for 1-2 days twice per year, Thanksgiving and Christmas. I think some families just do not see that they are taking for granted the blessing of family.
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