Today is coming to life with a wonderful glory that is memory creating. I am in the Napa Valley and it is crush week. The grapes still on the vines remind me that there are late, early, and predictable harvests. It is a busy time but also one of celebration. Perfect weather, gentle breezes, and the pure smells of nature dominate the senses. Everything is possible today!
Of all the days that this could be, it is also the day we will rehearse for my first daughter’s wedding. While my heart is overflowing, I am also more nervous than I am willing to admit. I want everything in her life to be perfect, starting with today. I know that life will not always be kind. There is too much pain and suffering on display to naively think anyone might have immunity. My dream is to see their hearts and eyes freely give birth to hope and love.
This day has been a long time in the making, at least for this father. I think of a Wayne Watson song about his daughter and the prayers offered on her behalf as well as the man-child God had in mind for her life. I remember the prayers of that time, wondering then what he would be life. I never quite had a picture until I met him and then I realized I had known him for most of her life.
For now everything is possible. I am getting ready, much as the advice has been to anyone coming to a celebration over the ages. David’s psalm reminds me that there is work yet to be done; “Let Egyptian traders bring blue cloth and Cush come running to God, her hands outstretched.” (Psalm 68.31) So on and on things go. Before the practice begins there are things to do. I also need time for reflection to help form the words I want to share. As always, we have places to be.
I love possibilities. As stressful as they are, each is filled with hope, struggles, and memories, today included.
