I suppose, that in a certain way, with all the relations and friends who've died this year, a case could be made for "what's to give thanks for?"
But of course I don't see it that way.
My mother Jeanne died at the age of 88 after a long and productive life, and 21 years of widowhood. I am happy we had her for as long as we did, even with her disabilities and a certain level of dementia at the end. It is a great blessing that despite her disabilities, her cheerful and upbeat personality remained intact to the very end.
My sister-in-law Kate. Losing her suddenly – quite a blow. Staggering really. In my mind's eye, she will always be the pretty, cheerful, vivacious, personable 36 year old woman I met in the summer of '78. What a charmer.
And then Croton friends of mine ( and Knights of Columbus) – huge contributors to Croton and our parish Church – Jim Moore and Rich Fuerst.
The death of Fr. Benedict Groeschel – not unexpected but still saddening. The family guru – he had a big influence on Brigid and I, in so many ways. HA! Just remembered that Brigid and he were in jail together at the same time, for the same act of civil disobedience – must have been 22 or 23 years ago. Anyway, what a productive life he had – with a great legacy of books and videos, and a whole reformed religious community.
So I'm celebrating this weekend and giving thanks – a lot to be thankful for.
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