It's that time of year when the tree out front turns a splendid shade of red before putting down a red carpet.
I stood amidst leaves while enjoying the great weather on All Hallows Eve 6 years ago on Saturday, October 31, handing out treats to children coming by with Dad. I had salt water taffy to distribute that I bought about a month prior from the Trader Joe's store in Pasadena that was the first store the company opened. That was certainly a treat.
My thoughts turn back to you because of various milestones this month.
Winnie the Pooh Bear celebrated his centennial 2 weeks ago. I watched him on TV during the Saturday morning line-up, and at other times for holidays. As I was reminded when I watched some footage two weeks ago, the stories were so delightful and Winnie is such a charming character because of his simplicity. The stories focus on what matters most, especially the company of people who we care about and love.
One family member in particular gave me reason to celebrate on October 15, the 75th anniversary of the debut of I Love Lucy, a show that Grandma Dottie introduced me to.
There were certain episodes that gave me good laughs, like the time when a Hollywood talent scout, Mr. Benjamin, arrives at the apartment to see Ricky. Ethel was on edge and wouldn't believe him. Then Lucy came home and knocked him unconscious. I laughed so hard that when I emerged from the basement from watching that episode, Mom or Dad would comment about hearing me laugh.
Ties with family also remind me of someone who worked to build up families in the USA, who had a special celebration on the morning of All Saints Eve, Saturday, October 31, 2020. After going to Daily Mass and the Farmers' Market that morning, back home, I had my computer open and ready for the Beatification Mass for Father Michael McGivney live from the Cathedral in Hartford. I had become more acquainted with Father McGivney's life and ministry since joining the Knights of Columbus 2 years prior. So it was a special moment that his cause for canonization reached this important milestone. It was particularly profound to see little Mikey Schachle carry a relic up to the celebrant Bishop during the Mass. He had almost not survived pregnancy and through Michael McGivney's intercession, he was born and testifies to the power of intercession and beautify of God's great gift of life.
Life is a gift. I am blessed that it was nourished and cherished through the love I experienced in you for 30 years, dear 1036. That has truly made you more than a house, but a home where I could experience the fullness of life God grants me in what really matters, our family relationships.
And so I declare that you shall not fade into the background but remain deep in my heart as that dearly Beloved place.
And we remain ever connected:
All my relations.
God's blessings,
With gladness, gratitude, and joy,
Paul
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