Sunday Scribblings: Decision

A good friend of mine sold a home she and her family have lived in for nearly 50 years. It was a difficult decision, but, quite frankly, it was time.

The stories that this house held were endless. And now it’s waiting for strangers to fill the rooms with new ones. The nice thing about memories, however, is that they’re transportable. Those funny, outrageous, heartwarming, heartbreaking memories live in the pictures and teacups and fine china and quilts we unpacked today.

For many reasons, my friend needed a change. I know she had a different life mapped out when she started this journey. But life gets complicated. Clean breaks are needed. Fortunately, she embraced the change, showing a kind of dignity and grace that I have come to expect from her. So we took our cues from her, which gave us the strength to help her make this transition.

My friend is happy in her new place. Not just happy—excited! It was as if she was moving into her first apartment again. All those things you need for a new space we had to buy, such as a shower curtain liner, silverware holder, and a teapot. Fresh flowers sat in a crystal vase on the kitchen table. Laughter filled every crack and crevice. And a little girl celebrated her second birthday today.

A while ago, possibly in anticipation of this day, my friend had an artist sketch the outside of her home and gave one to each of her children. In a few days, she’ll hang that picture in her new home. Afterwards, I imagine that she’ll use the new teapot, pouring hot water into an old teacup. I hope it's the best cup of tea she’s ever had.