The immediate family gatherings resembled a para-military style, covert action group. Everyone discussing very important aspects of the impending doom about to befall mankind... No one's comments was really recognized by others because everyone couldn't wait to prove to the others that they could mimic something just as well... Slowly some of the color would return to their faces and they would get a kick out of just how silly someone could actually be in the face of such an impending disaster.
Good morning, Perry, and Merry Christmas!
I feel a little guilty about it, but your post had me rolling. I understood it all. My baby sis and Mom are visiting us from out of town for the weekend, and I read it to my sis (out of my mom's hearing.) I could hardly get through it without cracking so bad that I had a hard time breathing.
As she said, we didn't ever have it as bad as you. All I can say is that it's good that you can take what are pathetically sad memories and find the humor in them. You have a very positive outlook and it's very refreshing and encouraging.
Last night I was showing my sis some of the features of my laptop (one is: it plays DVDs) and I ended up watching the only movie I own -– The Shawshank Redemption -- a movie that was already an all-time favorite but one I bought in order to finish a school writing assignment.
One of the main, if not THE, theme is not to give up hope. That is my wish for you and your family. If you have kids or influence over others that are in your family, you can pass on the lack of judgementalism that you now have.
As you said, it's the best we can do.
Take care,
tj