Wednesday, October 31, 2007

A Picture Tells a Thousand Words

Our family is planning a wedding for December. Stacks of family photos are being reviewed for possible inclusion in a video for the reception. The photos tell the story of life without the use of words. Most could fall into the category of a “Kodak Moment.” One photo that has been selected seems to be one of those moments captured on film that falls into the category, “oops, why did you take that photo of me looking like that?”
It is photo of Dad in a worn green terry cloth holey bathrobe while his young daughter
anticipates his opening her gift.

The robe was a regular part of his every morning and evening wear, including his attire for every Christmas morning. I’m not sure that if Dad were still alive he’d be thrilled to appear on screen in his less- than- luxurious robe to be viewed by the fancy dressed wedding attendees. Still, it is a chosen photo. This attire was as dependable as the love he gave his family. It was as comfortable and reassuring as the hugs he gave. The holes were mostly overlooked. They were mended and reappeared, much like family member flaws. Sometimes they were joked about, just as we used laughter to patch up complex moments. Perhaps the photos will bring additional laughs at the reception. Most likely it will be viewed with the understanding of the comforts of family.