Lately Matt’s been posting, here and there, directly and indirectly, about Red Rose Farm. Tonight was the first major family gathering at the place since wife Lisa and I took possession and gave the place its new name –a little “grown-up party” (thanks to two expert sitters) with me and Lisa, Matt and D., Uncle Grammy–I mean Uncle Terry–and Aunt Cheryl and hubby Chad. At dinner’s end Mom and Dad sat back to back and, in a version of The Newlywed Game, delighted all of us with just how well each knew the other’s likes, dislikes, gifts, weaknesses, foibles. At night’s end, more than one party expressed a sort of delighted surprise at how easy, enjoyable, memorable the evening was. Not all of us share the Faith, there were old injuries to be recalled, even new causes for bitterness awaiting their cue–in short, plenty of dysfunction waiting in the wings. Yes, there was good wine, and of course there was no real occasion for reviewing our family’s history. But what won the day was our desire to be family–together with something about the place, about which Lisa (or I) may blog before long and for which I am grateful to God, since only He can be responsible for such mysteries. I report this for what it’s worth. These little miracles must be noted when they occur. They seem too few and far between not to.
UPDATE: Lisa’s farm blog is here.
Good luck, I hope that it is a success. If you didn’t know, you can make your own wine it’s easier than beer too. I can point you in the right direction if you are interested.
I think there is such a thing as “the miracle of the family”. Our God brings it about as often as possible–as often as a family has a place to become who they are. Sadly, I think, most families simply don’t have a place, a physical place I mean, to allow that miracle to occur. Our fractured lives of work, shopping, sports, school, and “church” make it difficult to create a home: a place where our families can simply “be”.
Thanks for the brief glimpse of your family life. Good luck with your new home.
So true anonymous.
My family dysfunctions may be different from yours, but what defines yours? They seem to trouble you and you give us a hint that they may get worse. What injuries have you suffered? The “wine was good”, the only time that “good” was mentioned. A sign that you needed to hide from the reality of family issues, but you hint that you may consider further deeper dialog. We think you need to dig deeper and share further, if not for your sake, but for our Lord’s blessing and understanding.
We think you need to dig deeper and share further, if not for your sake, but for our Lord’s blessing and understanding.
I appreciate your concern. Both (all?) of you.