The Touch.

“Between the darkness on the street

And the houses filling up with light

Between the stillness in my heart

And the roar of the approaching night

Somebody's calling after somebody

Somebody turns the corner out of sight

Looking for somebody

Somewhere in the night.”

This time of the year can be confusing; it’s a time when families get together for the happiest of occasions, yet there also many families who are apart—whether by physical or mental distance; what should be the time of joy, can go a number of different ways.

This year, we have a little bit of both, and some in-between. 

One of our daughters is 13 hours (several time zones) away; if it were not for the wonder of technology, we would have no idea how she was enjoying her time so far away from home. We now see her on our computers, iphones, and read her words through text. On the flip side, there are other members of our family, where mental distance has placed a wedge into the relationship. I really wish this was not the case—I will leave it at that. I suspect I am not the only who has this situation to deal with, but then again if I can’t handle my own dealings, I am not able to provide any suggestions.

Last year we broke, and started, a new tradition. We had Thanksgiving at a restaurant in Chicago. At first I didn’t know if it was a good idea, but this year when it came up as an option, I voiced my opinion—“Let’s do it again.” It was so easy—no dishes, no full-day of kitchen activities (not me, my wife)—now it has turned into a much easier day to spend with family. 

I have thought back on what it would have been like as a kid to have had Thanksgiving at a restaurant and I am not sure I would have had the same opinion. My Mom (whose 85th Birthday would have been celebrated today) was very proud to bring this tradition to our table. Now with my wife Susan, I am very happy she is open to a change. For her, she is like my Mom, and very proud of what she brings to her family. It’s okay, we can re-create the entire experience another time.

In order to get this through, I had to convince our youngest daughter that it would be just as enjoyable to go back to the city and enjoy. How did I bribe her? We are going on a carriage ride. It’s something she’s wanted to do for a long time, and it’s time we do it. (My other daughter is not going to do it, she is very allergic to horses—-guess I will not be on the ride and I am just fine with that!)

If I could turn back time, I would love to have the relationship back that has been damaged. Hopefully next Thanksgiving, I will be saying, “Thanks” for having it happen—for this time, it will be in my thoughts.

The photo above was taken on Michigan Avenue yesterday; it’s an advertisement in a bus shelter and when you touch the glass, one of the candles lights. It is very cool and representative of the season. Just like the candles, I am hoping if you reach out and touch, something good may come of it.

Thanks for stopping by.