Christmas

Well, yesterday was interesting. I had family dinner with the maternal side. (here-forever referred to as "the dark side") As the first to arrive, I was able to witness the host furry demons (cats) walking all over the tables and counters. As you may have guessed the plates, cutlery, condiments and snacks were laid out; and their dirty little litter-box feet were tromping through it all leaving behind a layer of hair and grit. After a while the royal coach pulled up. It was a sad sight to see the once regal "Matriarch", now grey, near blind and hunched over a walker with a helper on each arm. After the pleasantries of hugs & kisses all round, we settled into dinner, adults with plates on laps and children kneeing, huddled around a foot stool as a table. It was about this time that the now frail Dragon stuck, its venom hurtling toward the youngest, "if you don't clear your plate Santa will not be coming" and shortly after followed by "be good or I'll be writing a letter to Santa". It caused me, inwardly, to recoil in fear. Keeping my 'fight-or-flight' response in check took a lot of control as memories of long ago resurfaced, filling my soul with unease. My earlier feelings of sympathy for the Dragon were suddenly replaced anger as I realized that these young ones are being forced to endure the same poison that I grew up with.

I held my tongue and the rest of the evening was uneventful. The meal was good and the desert interesting. We all chatted for a bit before the gathering dissolved and the frail dragon was escorted out to her waiting carriage. I was now free to say my good byes and leave the dark-side. My long drive was a chance for me to reflect, and I kept wondering; how many generations will be infected by this "Dragon". I do believe that she loves us all very dearly... Its the way it comes across... causes a lot of hurt bruised feelings for some (like me).

Today is a new day.

Happy Christmas, time gentlemen, please.