Remember the "Good"
Every once in a while
there's a moment in time
that's almost perfect
and you know it
you take Joy in it and Remember it.
It's a moment when you know
you've got a memory
you can bring back any time
especially when you're feeling discouraged.
(Christmas in Stockbridge, Mass, 1967 - a McCall's painting by Norman Rockwell)
When I look at this picture by Norman Rockwell, I not only see his idealized world; I also see a memory.
It's just a McCall's magazine centerfold in a time worn frame, but it's enduring to me because Buzz gave it to me just a couple of years after we were married. It was a gift from the heart and made me so happy! Of course this is just one of many memories; because my list of "good" memories has grown pretty substantial over the years.
That being said ... now that Buzz and I are retired and are together 24/7 there are times when I wish he would move into one of those little houses behind "Williams & Sons" in the fourth picture. One of those cute little houses with smoke rising from the chimney. I'm sure he'd be happy there.
Y'all know I'm kidding!
I don't even have to guess,
I'm positive he feels the same way about me at times.
That's because we don't live in Norman Rockwell's idealized world. We live in the "Real" world where two imperfect people who love one another, try to figure out how to get along.
This is where the Memory comes in!
When I get the least bit annoyed by something Buzz is doing, has done or will do ... if it bugs me enough to get completely annoyed, I just reach back into my memory bank, pull out some of my favorite memories of him and I'm immediately reminded of how much he loves me and I love him.
It doesn't take but a minute until that annoyance just slips away.
Yep!
There it goes!
“. . . Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things,” (Philippians 4:8).
I loved this Geneva....:) It's hard to stay upset with someone you love for long. What a sweet gift he gave you all those years ago...:) I know you must treasure it!Have a blessed night....Vicky
ReplyDeleteLife On Willie Mae Lane
ah! I know this phenomenon all too well.
ReplyDeleteI have to say... sometimes you have to put a little bit of distance between you, like say a drive into town for, who knows, some little what-knot. Because in the heat of the moment...I go to the memory bank...and rattle it around and come up short!
...just saying. Sometimes, a trip into town helps to work those memories loose, that's all! Pat
PS: Geneva, AIN'T RETIREMENT GREAT!? I liked this post. :)
Oh- I hear you loud and clear, Geneva. I have often wished spousal smothering was not illegal in our state!;>) xo Diana
ReplyDeleteThis was so beautiful and so true, dear Geneva! The gift your husband gave you years ago is absolutely precious :)
ReplyDeleteHugs!
Hi Geneva, well said togetherness is wonderful but we need a breather every now and again just to refresh life a bit!
ReplyDeleteWe all need our space at times. I often wonder about these couples that do everything together. Together is good, but not all of the time. Couples do have wonderful memories and if they don't - hey, it's not too late to start!
ReplyDeletewow. such perfect timing in my house, and an appropriate reminder.
ReplyDeleteThanks!