A few weeks ago I attended a nephew’s first birthday party in Algonquin and saw many family members I haven’t seen in years. But, what struck me the most was how strongly it made me remember those family members that were no longer there. The ones that would have been there to mark this special birthday, but couldn’t because they passed away. When I saw one cousin I was reminded of another cousin I was very close to who died over twenty years ago. They had been best friends and in my minds eye, I can still see them together. My cousin-in-law asked me how long I’ve been married which led me to ask how long she and my cousin were married. He passed away many years ago, but it made me remember that they seemed like the perfect couple and I told her that. But, what was most meaningful to me was seeing a woman whose son I had dated many years ago and who died many years ago from a concussion he suffered in a car accident. It brought back memories of what could have been, but wasn’t for many reasons we’ll never understand. It also made me think of my own parents who died way too long ago. They both would have celebrated their birthdays that week.
Although I miss those that are gone, I did have a great time at the party – talking and celebrating with my family and catching up on old times and introducing my son to some family members he never met. I also had a great time remembering those that weren’t there. Although they weren’t there in person, they were there in spirit through the memories of those who loved them the most. It was a nice reunion and it made me realize that our loved ones are never gone as long as we remember them.