Family

Grasping the concept of family seems more difficult in the climate of today. Perhaps the mobility, the media, and class issues contribute to the downfall of family. My family disappeared when my Mother died. I held on to whatever I could and Carole was it for me. Family is not always by blood, it's about common experience. Perhaps for some, those experiences are divisive, too many depressing, catastrophic memories. Sometimes it is felt the best thing is to just let it all go. Carole and I never said, "don't let go." We just held on, through dark and sunny days. We have hurt each other, but forgiveness runs deep in our relationship. I feel lucky to have this shared experience from childhood. Carole and I can reminisce about people only she and I may have a common memory of their existence. We shared our Mothers, each in our own way. We share her sisters and shared my brother, each in our own way. We feel completely comfortable with a quick phone conversation, just to touch base. Sometimes a month or two can pass and we don't call. But, we always do, doesn't matter who calls first. We just talk.