Friends and Family

Monday, October 11, 2010

West Hartford CT – I had a day of wonderful visits. My cousin Kevin picked up some fresh bagels and we sat around the house over breakfast before he went to work. He is just 2 years older than I, and was like a big brother growing up. We did so much together when we lived closer, but now the miles get in the way. Still, it’s a relationship that we can pick right up, and talk about ourselves and our lives freely.

Another friend from the seminary days, Fr. Steve, lives a hour away and came to town for lunch. Afterwards, we sat in the backyard enjoying lovely fall weather. Steve is recovering from a break on his kneecap; so he with his cane, and me with my limp, was each going about the right speed for each other. He works as a prison chaplain, and finds many wonderful encounters with people who’ve had lots of time to consider ways they’ve hurt people, and also often reflect on the hurts in their own lives. Steve tries to help them experience healing and forgiveness.

As kids, Kevin and I spent many hours playing board games, especially strategy ones. Our favorite was always RISK. For several hours this evening Steve, Kevin, my cousin’s son Brendan and I tried to conquer the world. We strategized, laughed and talked. We all found the evening playing together so relaxing.

Author: St. Joseph's Indian School

At St. Joseph's Indian School, our privately-funded programs for Lakota (Sioux) children in need have evolved over 90 years of family partnership, experience and education. Because of generous friends who share tax-deductible donations, Native American youth receive a safe, stable home life; individual counseling and guidance; carefully planned curriculum based on Lakota culture and individual student needs and tools to help build confidence, boost self-esteem and improve cultural awareness. All of this helps children to live a bright, productive, possibility-filled future. View all posts by St. Joseph's Indian School