Lasting memories! Four things stand out to me when I see this Norman Rockwell masterpiece. Simplicity. Generations Interacting. Eye contact. And what's in the dish under that silver lid?
Simplicity. The food displayed is turkey, celery, perhaps cranberries, fruit and whatever is under that beautiful silver lid. (And worth noting: Grandma's apron and Grandpa's suit and tie.)
Generations. Grandparents, parents, children, aunts and uncles. Being together. Talking together. Smiles. Laughter.
Eye contact. No cell phones. No TV. Smiling faces. Engaging in conversation. Leaning in. Enjoying one another's company. Living in the moment.
What IS in that elegant dish? Perhaps it is unknown because everyone can envision their own favorite dish. Mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, green bean casserole, fill-in-the-blank with your favorite.
Truth be told, this is a Norman Rockwell setting. Real life scenarios may not be quite this perfect and picturesque. One of the things I am most thankful for is the memory of traveling to my wife's childhood farm for the holidays. It is by far the closest thing I experienced that resembled this Norman Rockwell setting.
I loved "Mom and Dad." Their farm was in the Midwest, the heart of farmland country. A real 'over the meadow and through the woods to grandmother's house we go' scenario. Peaceful. Refreshing. Plenty of home-cooked food. Lots of love. From the minute we crossed the threshold we were treated to an abundance of pies, cookies and delicious food prepared with plenty of love.
Mom and Dad did not lavish us with monetary gifts, but their love and the memories made with them were priceless. They passed away a few years ago, but their legacy of love lives on. We miss them: the hugs, laughter, encouragement. Nothing can replace them, but in planning for the future they both secured life insurance and left a small trust for their children.
“We must find time to stop and thank the people
who make a difference in our lives.
— John F. Kennedy ”
Thank you, Mom and Dad, for the memories, your love and your legacy.
Happy Thanksgiving to all.
