sixteen

The nineteen are now sixteen. Two passed on before, another joined them a week ago. Sixteen brothers and sisters, twelve in-laws, six children and their spouses, and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren filled the rows along the receiving line. This was a great man, known by many and cherished by all.

As I passed relative upon relative, explaining my connection to this beloved family, I smiled at the goldmine of heritage captured in one room. How many people can claim to be one of nineteen children? How many people have two volumes of family ties tracing their roots to an original settlement in 1833? Not many, I dare say.

So there we were. Remembering the good times and wishing there could be more. Embracing those in mourning and weeping with those in pain. Offering a shoulder for a brief moment as we passed. My great-uncle was a mighty vessel used of the Lord - I am blessed to have known him.