2011 has come and gone, almost. The year has been full of ups and downs. Running was good early, tough later. Work was up and down. Life was a roller coaster, but God was ever-present. I have never really been one to do a Christmas, or year-end, letter. Never been known to even reminisce on the past, at least not publicly. Today, I will take a small step toward that goal.
In 2010, I lost a good friend, my father, another friend, and finally, my grandmother. It was tough to say the least. This past year, I found myself thinking of my father and grandmother a lot. I miss them. Dad and I were never close, but I miss him being there. I think fondly of our times together. As a kid, he made me laugh. He made me listen to Boston. He loved me, in his own way. Dad never said he loved me. Over the course of 2011, I have found myself wanting to be a better dad. My girls would say I am a great dad, but I know that isn’t true. Several years ago I went through a very selfish streak and left. Today I find myself wanting to be closer to them. Although I live 6 blocks away, I want to be closer to them. To be better connected to them. I love them.
Grandma’s passing left a huge void as well. Her side of the family doesn’t get together for holidays. Nobody stays in touch. It’s sad really. This makes me want to more time with my daughters. To tell them about grandma, and grandpa for that matter. Family should be the one thing we hold dear to our hearts. No contempt. No anger. Just love. I’m not suggesting that it’s all love and peace. Families have their moments, but we should be able to apologize and move on. Family matters most.
Growing up as a single child, I was fairly spoiled. I got what I wanted, when I wanted. Life was good. I spent many summer days with my grandma and grandpa and truly miss those days. To sit in the kitchen with grandma, or play pool with grandpa. I hope my girls feel that way about me someday.
What I want you to think about, is simple. Think about your family as you move into 2012. Think of ways to tighten that family circle. I pray that God blesses you and your family in the coming months, and years.
