Loyalty October 19, 2009
My entire immediate family was together this weekend in Michigan. That’s two parents, four brothers, three sisters, two spouses, two grandbabies, plus three grandbabies on the way (our baby boy, due in February, and my brother and his wife’s twins, due in April). The days are a little chaotic with so many people around, but now more than ever it’s great to have everyone together.
The other day, as I watched two of my brothers help my dad into his wheelchair for a quick trip around the block, I was struck by how grown up everyone suddenly seems. There is still plenty of laughing and kidding around – thank God! I can’t imagine my family without that – but there is a new awareness of responsibility too. Everyone seems ready to help out in whatever way possible. There is stress and sadness over my dad’s cancer, but not the usual whining that used to go along with too much family time.
I wish I could say that I have always respected my parents, always given them the benefit of the doubt, and always trusted their decisions for our family. But I can’t. I know that over the years I’ve been quick to notice their faults, not to show grace. I bet that each of my siblings could look back and find things they regret too. But right after my dad’s terminal diagnosis, my mom told us, “Don’t go over your past mistakes. Let’s just focus on what we can do for each other today.”
I am so grateful that my parents are loving, forgiving people. As a new parent myself, I feel like I see my mom and dad differently these days. I understand a bit more the frustration that comes when your child won’t listen to you, especially when you’re just trying to help and protect them. I know it’s impossible to raise a family without any arguments, and that tension is part of the growing up process. But I also hope that somehow Adam and I can follow in our parents’ footsteps with our own children, gently teaching them by example that they will never regret investing time in their family today.
“And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” – I Cor. 13:13
That’s such a cool picture!
I noticed that everyone stayed together the entire time. No one really went off to hang out one-on-one with someone (like what usually happens)-you all just wanted to stay together as a family. It was so amazing and I’m so happy I had the privilege to come see that and to hang out with you guys! You are all such a blessing! (The babies are beautiful!)
Linnea, You are blessed with a loving Christian family. As difficult as this past month has been, it has brought a closeness and appreciation between all of you like you have never experienced. It will grow stronger in the days to come and more precious as you grow old together.
John and I experienced this in our mid-thirties, while taking care of his parents. The heartache of the situation was mixed with some treasured conversations and laughter which bonded us even closer than what we were before.
May God continue to bless you and encourage you each step of this journey.
We love you and miss you, Momma C