Accolades

Something interesting happened while I was enjoying an early dinner with a friend this evening. As we waited for our meal, she suddenly became very serious and said, "Bern, I was thinking about you and your boys, and I have to tell you this because I promised myself that I wouldn't just think it and not tell you." What she went on to say was that I should be extremely proud of what of have accomplised in my life, and if I ever get down on myself, I should remember that my children are all decent, productive young men, and that's all on me. She went on to say that she knew I had been through hard times [my thought: haven't we all?], but with few resources early on I managed to do a lot of good for a lot of people, and a lot for and by myself. I felt the tears welling, but I didn't actually cry. Isn't it funny how, for many of is, accepting praise is more difficult than taking criticism? I was more than a little blown away, not because my friend isn't nice, but because she isn't usually sentimental. Maybe "sentimental" isn't exactly the right word for it, but it was somewhat out of character.

Of course, I appreciate what she said. And I especially appreciate that it was important for her to say it. On this Thanksgiving Eve, I am grateful for so many things and people -- mostly the people -- in my life, now and throughout the years. All have taught me valuable lessons, some good and some not so good. More than anything or anyone, I am grateful for my sweet sons and granddaughters, and for the closeness we share that I realize doesn't exist in all families. As I said to my friend, not complaining but just observing, I wasn't born into a tremendously supportive family, so I made one. It might sound funny, but I'm only half-kidding : )