Easter Memories

I've not been very good at keeping up with my blogging, which is not an atypical event for me. I've never been a good journalist, diaries just aren't my thing, and obviously writing my life's story is just too much effort. Yet I find myself drawn to write to a very specific group of people. These are my friends, new and old. I've never been a person who has many friends, yet I have discovered some of the most truly beautiful people I've met in my life and feel the need to tell them. You see, it has been my experience that in life we don't spend enough time telling our friends, loved ones, even those remote folk, that we appreciate them and yes even sometimes love them. I do feel compelled to share with this group of people because two of my least favorite holidays have passed since I've spent time in the group, and an amazing event has occurred! These two holidays have positive memories for me! Now granted, I don't remember the Turkey at Thanksgiving, and yes I was a bit hazy at Easter, but I do remember laughing, giggling, having fun, and wanting to go back. But my friends I want you all to know how much your friendship has meant to me these past several months. Your kindnesses, welcoming smiles, and willingness to accept the new kids has been the sun in my eastern sky. When I was a child it was the long and arduous trips to Wyoming that were irritating, and the underlying Christian themes that my family brought to all of our gatherings. I don't mind religious people parse, but I have always wondered why everything must be about religion. In my family it was a matter of God died for me, so everything that happens centers around his Crucifixion, even Easter, even Thanksgiving, even Christmas. This is the general Catholic theme. So as you can imagine, the Death of God throws a pallor on all celebrations at some level. Here are some examples:"Let us give thanks to Almighty God who died for us, not unlike this turkey on Thanksgiving." "Let us open these presents which represent the gift of God's son to us so that he will die for our sins, Merry Christmas.""Let us gaze upon this Easter feast and remember that it is only by the blood of the savior we are able to enjoy these mimosas and bloody mary's."Of course I could go on and on, but really what I'm trying to say is that it's nice to gather with our loved ones simply because we enjoy their presence in our lives. I just want all of you to know that I am grateful to know you. I've laughed more with you than with any other folks on the planet. I am glad to know you, and toast each and every one of you with every drink. May the Easter sun we've brought to each other continue to shine in whatever darkness we occasionally find ourselves in. For I believe it was on that balcony at Eddie's we were all truly free, even if only for a minute, and that's what it means to love. Thank you.