It's June, so it's time for June tunes.
Thinking about the centennial of Andy Griffith's birthday at the start of this month, I recall how enjoyable it was when we sat down to watch an episode of The Andy Griffith Show, starting with that delightful whistling tune. Then we entered the lives of the characters in Mayberry in all their variety: Barney's exuberance, Opie's youthful energy, Aunt Bee's down-to-earth approach in cooking and other domestic matters, and Andy's calm demeanor that could set everything straight.
I recall one episode when two ladies from a historical society discovered that Otis was the descendant of someone who committed an act of great valor and bravery during the War of the American Revolution. The Mayor of Mayberry wasn't pleased that Otis, with his unsavory reputation, would get an award. Fortunately, everything was set straight for the hometown hero and Mayberry by the time of the plaque presentation.
In the spirit of Fathers' Day that we celebrated a week ago, The Andy Griffith Show was a great example of something my Dad enjoyed for years and then passed on the experience to me.
Just as we welcomed the lives of another world into you, so we welcomed special people into you. In the wake of Aunt Carmen's passing, I thought about the memories I have of her. Even though she lived in Denver, she often returned to Chicago to reconnect with her roots, and I can recall that she came to see us at 1036 at least twice. On September 17, 2017, she came with Abuela for dinner. Eric and Naomi came, too. The seven of us had a great meal together.
Buddy, the dog, stayed with us many times. Once, Abuela had some roof work done at her home, and while it was happening, she felt it would be good for Buddy to stay with us. One June weekday afternoon, she randomly arrived with her friend Bridget to drop off Buddy.
Mom returned home from work later that day and opened the garage service door to enter the yard. As I stood at the top of the stairs leading to the back entrance of the house, I could see Buddy scurrying along the walkway from the alley to the yard. Mom didn't realize he was there until he reached the yard, and Mom reacted as she called out, "Buddy", signaling that she suddenly realized he was there.
There was great delight in welcoming others to our home, so that we could share our love, joy, and happiness in that place with those who came. Even as we get ready to celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the Independence of the USA, I recall gathering family together to celebrate in the patriotic spirit with an outdoor cookout-style meal with food cooked on the grill.
I continue to rejoice in recalling these memories of you, 1036, and sharing them with others.
For you shall not fade into the background, but remain deep in my heart as that dearly beloved place where I experience a distinct sense of love.
We are ever connected:
All my relations.
With gladness, gratitude, and joy,
God's blessings,
Paul
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