The above photo is 30 years old (1992). It is one of just a few mementos I have from when we celebrated my parents' 50th wedding anniversary. Dad died just a short 17 months after this celebration. Mom lived into her 90's and died in 2015. Although mom and dad are both deceased, my brothers and I are still kicking. I am the youngest of the three, and it is quite obvious that each of my older brothers have aged immensely since this photo was taken 30 years ago. Thankfully, the tall guy on the end remains young and dapper to this day.
The reality may tell a different story. Although I am the youngest of the sons, I may have aged more than my siblings. I am grateful that both of them have had fewer health problems throughout the course of their lives. My health issues started at birth, and unfortunately, some of those issues set the stage for developing cancer at age 25. Two battles against cancer, open heart surgery, and a few lesser challenges along the way have taken a toll. Getting COVID last year certainly did not help matters either.
I simply reflect back today to ponder the goodness of the journey. It has not been an easy journey by any stretch of the imagination, but I am grateful for the love and support of family in the midst of all the challenges. Having family support is not a gift I take for granted. I know that many people are not so lucky to have that kind support system when they need it.
Blessings and peace to my brothers. A tip of the hat to my parents as we give thanks on this--their 80th wedding anniversary!
Eternal rest grant unto them O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May the souls of my parents, my grandparents, all my relatives, friends, and benefactors, and the souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.
The reality may tell a different story. Although I am the youngest of the sons, I may have aged more than my siblings. I am grateful that both of them have had fewer health problems throughout the course of their lives. My health issues started at birth, and unfortunately, some of those issues set the stage for developing cancer at age 25. Two battles against cancer, open heart surgery, and a few lesser challenges along the way have taken a toll. Getting COVID last year certainly did not help matters either.
I simply reflect back today to ponder the goodness of the journey. It has not been an easy journey by any stretch of the imagination, but I am grateful for the love and support of family in the midst of all the challenges. Having family support is not a gift I take for granted. I know that many people are not so lucky to have that kind support system when they need it.
Blessings and peace to my brothers. A tip of the hat to my parents as we give thanks on this--their 80th wedding anniversary!
Eternal rest grant unto them O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May the souls of my parents, my grandparents, all my relatives, friends, and benefactors, and the souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.
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