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One reward for a long life

8/6/2016

2 Comments

 
18.

One reward for a long life

I had sent the Cohanan for his 98th birthday a print of a self portrait call “drawing myself.”  While it has some flaws technically it does in a way sum me up as a person.  He already had a print of it but the print and the frame were a mess despite someone's efforts to piece it together.

Well, yesterday the Cohanan called to thank me.  He said words can't describe how good it felt to receive this.  His first complement went to my packing skills.  For some reason my family considers this important.  I can't remember his words exactly but he basically said the drawing captures all of me.  He added he was proud that I was a productive individual who was expressing himself.  More was said but I can't remember exactly what.  For the most part I listened and took it in.

My late mom was a bit gushy at times and this eventually rubbed off on my father.  His nature was more reserved and less emotive and he could be cold and disappear on you.  Whatever its genesis at this time it was nice to hear these words and I just listened.  For years the family dynamics were complex, somehow poisoning even simple dialogue.  But now after all these years simple appreciation was offered and then received.  It is one reward for his living a long life.


2 Comments
Joanne Thomson Locke
10/13/2016 06:18:58 am

Totally agree and relate to everything said here (including call from Dad in response to emailed photo of his Big Band CDs, and current brass combo CD with his picture on it, next to his stereo components, delivered by our eldest son). Hope to reach this level of wisdom ourselves now that complex family dynamics of raising two sons is over (youngest just left home). Raising kids is always stressful. Here's to a long life of wisdom and kindness for us all.

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Steven Nussdorf link
10/13/2016 10:39:33 am

Hi Joanne,
funny how there are similar trigger points in certain families and how they parallel. You re right, it's a stressful experience and not easy. It takes a long time for sharp edges to smooth out. When younger you think they are but they might not be. Good thoughtful response. Thanx S

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