thoughts on the news of the day: coming home

hmmm…..

            I am not much of a hockey fan.  But this morning I watched a film clip from the opening of the Boston Bruins game that was held on Saturday night.  The drop of the puck tradition was held when Darren and Lori Jacobs walked out into the middle of the rink.  As a surprise to them, the Bruins had brought their son, Lt. Charles Jacobs home on leave from Afghanistan.  Imagine the Jacobs amazement and delight to see their son.  He had come home, even if only for a short while.

            Coming home can sometimes be a bittersweet moment.  I am sure that no matter how long he is there, for the Jacobs, it will seem like too short a time.

            We had another homecoming yesterday at out church.  The extended family of one of our long time members had come to visit.  But this wasn’t a joyous occasion; they were coming home to bury their elderly mother, grandmother, great-grandmother.  The funeral is this morning, so they decided to join together in celebrating worship at their Mom’s church for what will probably be their last time.  We welcomed them with open arms.

            Thanksgiving can be a coming home.  And it can be joyous or not so joyous.  For family who get along, it is a wonderful occasion for celebration.    I have one good friend who will be in the hospital over Thanksgiving and won’t get to come home – not very wonderful at all.  Cold turkey on a plastic tray is probably awaiting her.

            For all of us who will be with family and friends, let’s be grateful for our time together.  It will be so short.

            hmmm…..,