Because of a Butt

Because of a butt, my Saturday was jolted! The day was tentatively planned as a swimming day because my niece was bringing her friends. Day in the life of ALS: someone gets me out of bed to the potty, baths three times a week, then teeth, face, and hair. It takes a little bit of time. It’s the best when I am freshly showered with not an itch anywhere.
I was rolled to my spot in the living room by my heaters, devices, and blankets. Starting the day like always and Ben said, “Mr. Allen bought us a BBQ Butt.”
I replied, “He is such a great neighbor. Should we eat it or burgers?” He is known as The Mayor of Heathridge. About that time Ian and company came in, four of them and also her sisters four. My friend Cindy came by after lunch with catfish from Reelfoot Lake. We sat down talking and watching the pool activities. Enjoying the moments. I kept watching the flurry of activities at our house and it hit me. They were taking care of business without me. Putting the meal together, running to the store for the forgotten last items, and laughing people and children in and out of the pool.
Husbands, wives, and fiance carrying on traditions. They were celebrating like our family always has. I said, “Look. They are going to be okay. The love of family and friends will continue on. They know how to continue on without me. They have not asked me anything. They are ready!” It was a beautiful day.
The butt started the whole gathering.That one act of kindness created another and then another until the celebration was in the books as a success. By supper time there were all kinds of sides, steaks, and dessert, all done with their generation. Yes! The baton was successfully passed. Thanks be to God.

Happy Birthday America!

Sarah Anderson Alley
Sal the Celebration Gal

Quote of the Day:
“Tradition is a guide not a jailer.”
W Somerset Mangrum