Life Highlights: Family and Small Towns

The Beautiful Bridge That My Hometown is Very Proud Of

Today I sadly had to say goodbye to my cousins, aunt, and uncle, but as soon as they left I was able to say hello to Manar! Their flight left a mere twenty minutes before hers came in, so it felt more like a scene change between characters instead of a heartfelt, teary goodbye.

In between their departure and Manar's arrival, we (my grandparents, mom, and I) went to church. Unfortunately there was no sermon, but the children's choir performed, bringing back lots of good memories for my mom and myself of when I was in "Joyful Noise" (the church's children's choir). It was weird, however, to think that the last time I sang in that choir was before any of the children singing were born.

What I was most impressed by, by far, was how popular my grandparents were at church. I knew my grandpa was an Elder, but I had no idea how much of a prominent leader in the community he was. People stopped him (and my grandma) right and left - wanting to talk/socialise with them about a variety of things. He was essentially accosted as soon as he was in the door! It made me very gratified to know everyone was doing alive and well. Even though I don't often think about the lives my grandparents lead, to know they are fulfilled and loved in a community is really lovely. Not to mention how my mom is still synonymous with "post office" in town, and is also a leading community figure.

In short, today made me remember how much I love my hometown and how important it is to have community. Even though I've been homesick for my friends and family back in California this past month, I think the Good Lord knew the solution would be to go back to my "og" hometown. I forgot how much I love Oregon, and even after just a few short days my soul feels replenished and blessed - to know that one is loved (even far away) has been a great comfort. For instance, although I haven't been living in Florence for almost five years, when I went back to church I still knew a decent amount of people there (and they knew me). I even had my old youth pastor's wife tell me that she had my picture on their fridge and they pray for me. To be known and know others, no matter how far away you move or years ago you were there, it always sticks in a small town. And I'm very proud to say that Florence is mine.