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Show 1W The family had already begun. I tiptoed into the quiet oom like an intruder, feeling, typically outside'the family synergy. But my father was pleased to see me. Despite the fatigue which creased his forehead, making his eyelids droop and puff, his smile beamed approval. He knew that I wasn't there to make trouble but to honor him and show my love. The evening was more like a family home evening than a party. We began with hymns, then sang a few rounds. AuntSarahWho sat beside me on the long sofa against the west wall of the spacious family room, put her arm around me and squeezed. "So good to have you with us, Jeannie," she whispered. "Just like old times." Her eyes glistened and an exchange of memory-vials passed between us, golden moments opened by the warmth of love and shared silently and irrevokably as costly perfume. Aunt Helga, ever-solicitous of my father's health, suggested he sit in a more comfortable chair- When he was settled in a big, second-hand easy chair with wisps of batting sprouting from the upholstery, he looked around at us and smiled wearily. "I'm glad to be with my darlings. But I'm very tire this evening." He closed his eyes. A. 11 anntElsa about his I overheard Aunt Helga tell Aunt difficult day at the office, how five patients had showed ^ »P without calling and several others came by to talk a ou . tSarahpUt down her personal or financial difficulties, AU . . necic for a moment crocheting and went to him, massaging |
