It’s time for the family to gather again. Chris and Nadine have opened their house to us all. Mom has been slowly recovering and knitting. Craig arrived earlier in the week. Curtis and Jeff are en route. Cliff came down last night. Calvin and Angie will join us over the phone.
Looking back on things, Mom and Dad always had the biggest grins on their faces when the family was together. They had a special twinkle in their eyes and their smiles just seemed bigger. It didn’t matter the reason, as long as we were together, they were happy.
As the kids got older, fewer of us returned for Thanksgiving, but we’d make it back for Christmas. The only year that we all didn’t make it back for Christmas was 2001. That year, some got together in California while others gathered in Michigan, but it didn’t really feel the same. That excitement and joy from all of us being together wasn’t completely there.
This year, the Chin clan will be separated again. Calvin and Angie are an ocean away, but still reachable by phone. And Dad. Well, Dad is within all of us. Always.
This holiday season has me a bit more reflective than times past. I am more appreciative of the friends and support that have rallied behind us. I am more in awe of the way our parents sacrificed for us. I am more grateful for my family and the family that is to come.
So, on behalf of the Chin crew, we thank you for all of the love and support you have given each of us. We hope to stay connected with you in the New Year.
I’m out.
–Cindy
Comments