Today was an extraordinary day. My nephew Daniel married a beautiful young lady, Christina. It was the chance for the extended families of both bride and groom to come together and celebrate. As I have not been part of Christina's family until today, the following observations are of The Maidens Clan.
I am sure we are not unlike other families in that large get togethers get limited to weddings and sadly funerals. We are have lives of our own, children responsibilities and jobs that overwhelm the idea of planning just a big party for the Hell of it. I fault no one for this.
The Maidens Clan is large and far reaching for many reasons. My brothers and sisters have been born in four different countries (Canada, USA, Jamaica, Colombia). And now we live in five different countries (Canada, USA, Columbia, Domincan Republic & Haiti). So geographically, we are challenged to impromtu casual gatherings. But thankfully for for this special day, all my siblings were in the same place at the same time.
Each of us have had our own personal challenges in our lives that may have kept us apart. These may include financial or emotional or others. Again I fault no one for this. We all have our own pathes to walk and it would be unrealistic that such an eclectic group of people would have pathes that meet perfectly.
I am the youngest at 45 years old. Four and a half decades is a long time to wait. I was overwhelmed both by the fact we were here but also by the fact that it took so long for it to happen.
My father is now almost 80 years old. He has become frail over last few years, and feels that his time is coming soon. I don't think I am the only one who believes he is just to too onery too die. There is that old saying: Only the Good Die Young. Lol.
I could see the emotion in my father as he watched his children talking with each other, exchanging hugs, and sharing stories of his grandchildren. I don't think I would be lying or exagerating that he too was overcome with joy and perhaps a little pride. We said often over the day that among his children, there is not a "dud" to be found. Regardless of their differring life experiences, they have all turned out to be good people. A great big thanks goes to their mothers, Vicky and Anita.
I think what my point is that we really never know what God and the Universe has in store. Things that we think are impossible, may just be around the corner. God has often put my best made plans to shame and I am grateful. But on this day I am grateful to my God and the Universe that you saw fit to have a family, that at sometimes has been divided, together in happiness and love.
