Reach out to those you long to know

The holidays are known for bringing families together. Aside from all the commercialism and decorating, it’s really a time when we step back and treasure the special people in our lives.

Of course, it’s also a difficult time for many, as the holidays can remind some people of what they have lost.

My family went through a devastating period where we lost two members in 18 months — one the day after Christmas. After that, we decided to vacation together as a family during the week of Christmas. It only lasted a few years, but it’s what we all needed to heal from the pain, and now those are treasured memories for me.

And the addition of my son to the family has allowed me to focus on teaching him about this wonderful time of year. It has rejuvenated my spirit when I see my toddler’s delighted face as he discovers Christmas trees, holiday lights, angels and Nativity scenes.

I must say, however, that this time of year has me longing for my parents. As some of you might recall, my mother departed this world long ago and I am estranged from my father. And this irrefutable truth forces a sadness to settle upon me, especially when I’m trying to make Christmas bright.

Over the Thanksgiving holiday, I took a chance on reconnecting by calling my paternal uncle. I asked if he wanted to visit while my husband, son and I were visiting other family in the area. Not only did he say yes, he welcomed us with open arms.

He and his partner cooked for hours preparing a feast — she even bought our son some new toys.

We sat and ate and talked and shared. It was as if the 25 years since we last saw each other melted away. And I know it sounds melodramatic, but it restored my faith in family. It’s never too late to reach out and reconnect — it’s all about just taking that chance.

— Sarah Leach is the editor of The Holland Sentinel. Contact her at (616) 546-4278 and sarah.leach@hollandsentinel.com.