The plan made aging pure fun. I promise we will move on next week to either deeper or more quirky subjects. Over 100 pieces of mail deserve a blog all their own, not to mention that the purchase of stamps may have helped offset the deficit of the USPO. Two eager bunnies sent words in early May which I opened before I realized they were covering their bases while the thought was upon them. Then I started saving in a basket decorated with an angel that is usually used for Christmas cards. Some I recognized by a name on the back or a return address or a personal Aunt Charis for addressee. Others had no clue except it was for me
I got up Thursday morning and sorted in piles by family, church connections, and worldly friends. Whether anyone noticed it or not, I am nothing if not organized. I needed to savor and to make a list. Active reading was delayed by admiring a Happy 85th Birthday sign in the front yard. (Whoever sent, consider yourself thanked). Appropriate distractions came as e-mails or texts or absolutely delightful phone calls. Two close at hand friends came to greet in person and give a now permissible hug. The celebration was supper at a Mediterranean restaurant with a group of six kin. A glitter edged poster listing memories from three great nephews shone as decoration. The day was topped off with carrot cake.
The next day began connecting who and what, each giving a special blessing or delight. A few mainly reminded me of a person that pandemic or just shifts in recent activities had moved to a back place in my mind. I needed to sit and rest in that connection again. Some were a to the point recount that could have happened only because of a special place or time. Words brought tears or a chuckle or the action of putting the paper down and catching my breath. I was overwhelmed by those who took time to take pen in hand and fill a whole page with stories or fleeting glances of years that have passed.
Since these were chosen friends, I didn’t expect criticism, though with some, it could have been offered. What caught me were some incidents I thought were ordinary, turned out to be a treasure for others. I liked hearing smiling and encouraging and loving children because I see those traits in me. Some offerings like adventurous opened a door to be more of that, and I was pulled up short when someone listed patient as a virtue. Really? To those who sent words and times, and to you who just absorb the overflow of the day in this writing, thank you. You have walked with me in various journeys and have give me what we are called to give to each other.
As I have loved you, so you must love one another. John 13:34
Let Me Tell Ya 