Last Thursday Mike and I drove over the snowy Cascades to Bend to attend the memorial service for a dear family member. After the standing-room-only community service, family gathered at my cousin Ann's high desert home. All my cousins from that side of the family were there, along with their spouses, grown children, and the next generation of smart and beautiful little ones (including one adorable surprise, Zoe, whose entry into the family was news to me!). It had been years since I'd seen my cousins and their families and I'd nearly forgotten what remarkable people they are. I kept saying to Mike, "I love my family" because I was struck moment to moment by this dazzling brightness around them. There was a light born of unconditional love, ringing laughter, deep respect, shared sorrow, sweet memory, and celebration of one another and of those no longer with us.
We took pictures and have some good shots. But I needed something for this post that was more representative of how it felt to be in the presence of family. In this painting of Yosemite I recognized their shining spirit, joy, peace, fellowship, and strength. Looking at it: nothing more need be said.
painting of Yosemite - clipart.com subscription
