As the throngs converged on L.A. for Mr. Jackson's memorial this morning (which I don't begrudge by the way - he was an American icon), we helped a good friend lay his father to rest.
Ron Martin was a patriot, serving the Navy's submarine fleet as a contracting officer for over four decades. His son, daughter in law, and daughter were the first to adopt us when we moved to New England three years go. I was OK through the mass. Less so when they handed the tri-folded American flag to Ron's granddaughter. Respect, worship, sorrow, fellowship, laughter, and tons of good food. Just like he wanted it, I'm sure.
And tonight our three teens and some special friends will help the Eco-Wife and me celebrate our 19th anniversary.
I already know it's going to be a special evening. She and I have grown a lot the past two years - some as individual people, but much more together as a couple. Like Jo and Bill we anchored ourselves as best we could and by God's grace survived the Class 5. We mourned the things in ourselves and each other we could never change. As we let go we discovered whole new treasures in each other we hadn't noticed before.
The champagne and garlic-laden pasta will help when we say goodbye to two couples whom God and the Navy have plans for elsewhere. It's the opposite of the best thing about Navy life, which is meeting so many new friends.
So, quite a day. Reminds me of what athlete-missionary Eric Liddell used to say.
Christians never say goodbye for the last time.
[From April L...]
CONGRATULATIONS on your anniversary! I'm so thankful for your successful marriage!
I also wrote about Michael Jackson and the 13 soldiers who have died since 7/5. I logged in with the URL.
Have a great anniversary party!
MICHAEL THE NARC-ANGEL
Millions of little members of the worldwide F.F.A. (Future Followers of the Antichrist) have finally learned how to find a certain part of their lower anatomy and quickly touch it while dancing - thanks to Michael Jackson, the highest paid Lower Anatomy Toucher of all time! Special thanks also go to the Jesus-bashing, Hell-bound Hollywood moguls who were just as quick to see higher profits in lower anatomies! [Just saw this opinion on the web. Other grabby items on MSN, Google, etc. include "Separation of Raunch and State," "David Letterman's Hate, Etc.," "Tribulation Index becomes Rapture Index," and "Bible Verses Obama Avoids." - something for everyone!]