Family Ties

Last year I went with my Jewish Father-in-law to the Western Canada Theatre’s production of Fiddler on the Roof.  It was my very first time watching the infamous production.  Knowing that my father-in-law’s mother was a little girl living in Russia during this era, just like the musical, made it especially poignant.  He immensely enjoyed the comedic portrayal of his heritage and it conjured many stories from him later that evening.

I would have to say that was one of those ‘perfect’ evenings.  That moment when we are all gathered around the fireplace on a cold winter’s night – our grown daughters still mesmerized by the fond familiar stories their grandpa is telling while my husband interjects his own humorous anecdotes of growing up with a Jewish heritage…We were connected that night.  In that moment the ties that bind us together were connecting us to each other, to our cultural heritage, to those who went before us and even to our future…those ties filled me with comfort and joy unmatched.

This is my wish for you this Christmas–that you would take time to connect.  Make room in your schedule for those moments that you will remember for the years to come.  Nurture your heart and those around you by allowing the stories and the laughter to go much later than they should.  Nurture your soul by connecting with your faith and the wonder of the first Christmas.  Connect to whatever or whomever brings you comfort and joy.

Merry Christmas!

From the Runge Family