poignant position

On Sunday there was a shift in perception of my extended family. I was seated in the very back row (actually usher seats) of St. Francis Catholic Church in Winthrop participating in the first mass led by my cousin Ben. There, from that position with my Dad's white-haired noggin rising above the crowd, I realized my aunts and uncles are now the "elders" of the family and I'm a "middle." No longer a grandchild, but a niece, and part of a larger cousin group that will slowly be diluted as our own families grow and move away. However, the tie to these aunts and uncles will not fail. They remain constant and connected to their siblings children. It is quite amazing to get that spark of recognition and excitement from them during conversations. You know these are people who have witnessed your entire existence.

How wonderful to observe these stalwart Norwegian Lutherans brought to tears with love and pride for little Ben. Oops, I mean all grown-up Ben, Fr. R. Benjamin Osborne.

How wonderful also, to have all these built in friends--my cousins--who are infinitely interesting and so very good-looking! I am thankful to the elders on this family trait!

Good job Oliver and Hazel.

Quote from Anne Ortlund;

To feel loved, to belong, to have a place and to here one's worth and dignity often affirmed--these are to the soul what food is to the body.

take care~