This is the family portrait we gathered to take on Thanksgiving 2000.
Nancy was very ill and wanted a record of the family together before she...
Well, you know.
This photo was taken toward the beginning of her 4 year battle.
The only good thing her death did for me was bring me closer to my family.
Not that I was entirely estranged...
But for a few members of the family my being gay was a bit of an issue.
Which just made things a tad weird thru the years. And kept me away.
Before we left for the photography studio my niece Crissy pulled me aside,
"Uncle Chuck, I really owe you an apology."
Curiosity crossed my face as I asked, "An apology? For what?"
She continued, "I wasted all these years thinking you were weird."
Oh that.
I gulped and tried to make light to deflect the awkward moment, "I am weird!"
Crissy stopped me, "No. You're so cool. I hate that I didn't see that before."
I pulled her to me in a tight and tender embrace - one of genuine warmth.
While well-hugged she concluded, "I just hope you can accept my apology."
I was tip-lipped owing to tearing-up but I managed a quiet, "Of course."
That moment may be a small moment for her but it was pivotal for me.
And from that day forward our relationship deepened & it's been wonderful.
Hmm, beyond.
***
Crissy is the young blond on the left just behind the boy, Nancy's son Alec.
Great picture and a nice story, good memories.
Posted by: Diane | February 18, 2012 at 05:28 PM