June 2007

Last week-end, I attended my 50th high school reunion, and it was a great time. Friday evening 6-8 couples ate supper together at a local restaurant. When the restaurant closed at 9 p.m. we moved outside to a porch where we talked until the place was locked tight, lights turned off and the employees left.

The next morning, we met at our high school where we wandered through the halls and remembered teachers, fellow students, events and shared memories. One of our group could tell us what each teacher taught in which room. high school

That afternoon we went to the newly-renovated court house in the middle of town. Courthouse While viewing the original copper ceiling in a courtroom and peeking in refurbished offices, we ran into old friends and renewed acquaintances on the town square – one man we had tried to connect with in England, but could not.

Saturday evening was terrific. An informal time of mingling preceded a wonderful catered dinner in the large fellowship hall of one of the local Baptist churches. Around thirty of my class members and many spouses not only reminisced with 50s music, but laughed at jokes, wept over deceased members, and genuinely enjoyed renewing long-time friendships. Fourteen of our class members are deceased, and they are greatly missed. It was my privilege to say a few things about them and pray for all of us. God has given us a few more years than they had, and I want them to count for Him. reunion

People with whom we grew up and attended classes for years were like family, and going back to our home town was like going home. Wrinkles, sags, and changing hair color did not dampen our enthusiasm for meeting each other again after several years. Although many have retired, many have not, and only one confessed to “doing nothing.”

Sunday we went to two different churches in two different towns, making crucial connections as well as being involved in an extensive counseling situation. Monday we drove back to Central Virginia through thunderstorms, but making good time. I arrived in time that evening to attend a baby shower for our newest grandson, Orrin Mark, with a hand-stitched quilt just for him. Baby Quilt

God has been so good to lead us in all our ways and help us make the connections we needed to make. I praise Him for good memories and good friends.