Nearby family gathered to celebrate my parents’ anniversary with a casual dinner at a barbecue joint in a rural Oklahoma town earlier this month. The location was chosen because, all those years ago, it’s where my parents married.
We enjoyed a yummy dinner and ate way too much of the giant chocolate chip cookie with the words Happy 65th Anniversary painted across the top. As the party was drawing to an end, my father had a sudden medical emergency.
We are grateful our daughter, a nurse, was present and able to assess the situation. And we’re thankful for the EMTs who quickly arrived on the scene and transported Dad back to a hospital in the city.
On holidays, I sometimes get a little nostalgic. The 4th of July is one holiday when my thoughts often turn to family celebrations. It’s how I grew up—gathering with extended family around the outdoor grill or ice cream maker in the scorching heat of an Oklahoma summer. As the sun set, the kids would light sparklers and enjoy the fun while waiting for the big fireworks.
Family is a gift—and we are glad Dad is still with us. May this holiday season find you among friends or family with new memories being made, however or wherever you choose to celebrate.
On this 4th of July, I want to remember to pause and pray for my homeland. Perhaps you’ll join me. She sure could use our prayers.
And now, onto a few of my favorite things…
