A Frame Around Respite

Vacations are meant for so many things. Excitedly so, we dig out our suitcases from the closet. Despite the wonderful craziness you go through preparing for a trip, we all look forward to the reprieve we get from the unpleasantries of unexpected life circumstances.

We meticulously pack our clothes and belongings; organizing as we go. My mind very easily thinks of you. It wasn’t easy packing away your belongings; giving away things you spent your whole life gathering. It was most unpleasant.

I remember an early morning road trip Craig and I took. We have taken countless road trips these past three years, but this particular road trip was special to me. We left in the darkness of the early morning hours. We drove into the sunrise. Have you watched the sunrise recently? What did you think about it? How did it make you feel? I noticed the horizon was brightening up, even before the sun was seen. The effulgence of the sun’s rays, framed the Earth, in all its beauty; free from whatever troubles were happening across the land. The thick fog still hung over the fields of crops making it appear like a winter wonderland, though it was quite warm and humid. The colors that gushed forth across the horizon line, were a soft pink with an ombré effect that lead to deep purples and blues against the sky. The midnight stars were still alive and dancing, not quite ready to call it a night. At this moment, I could remember your smile, bright as could be.

I felt humble. I felt love. I felt peace. I felt calm. I felt enamored with my Creator. Those most unpleasant things seemed to slip away as easily as a silk scarf slips through your fingers. A short period of relief.

Vacations are meant for so many things. You were meant to come with us. You were so looking forward to this trip. This vacation means heart-felt celebrations. My husband and I celebrate our 21st wedding anniversary, and as my husband Craig officiates the wedding for our son Joe and his bride Susie, we celebrate new beginnings. We relish in the presence of family; missing you at every sunrise. Your presence was felt strong during this momentous occasion, without a doubt. I know that you’re looking down, smiling so big, watching all of your loved ones, having so much fun together. In celebrating your life, I will smile, bright as could be.