We moved from Austin, TX to Wichita, KS in the end of October. The first family that visited us was my mom and step-father coming from Minnesota for Thanksgiving. This summer, family is flocking to Wichita to see us (though mostly to see the new baby, Haddon). My mother-in-law stayed in town for 3 weeks waiting for the little man to make his appearance, and my dad (and step-mother and step-sisters) just came this past week.
When I’m distanced from my family, I put on a strong face and do okay. With modern technology the distance is certainly shortened, and at times, barely noticeable.
And then they visit. And it’s wonderful.
But when they leave it hurts. And the distance that was hardly noticeable before feels like halfway around the world.
And that’s the sheer comfort of presence. The weakness of technology is that it is only always active. You only call when there’s something to say. You never use iChat or Skype just to stare at one another and remain in silence. But when you can just sit in the same room and say nothing – simply appreciating being in each other’s presence – that’s something that technology will never be able to replace.
I love you guys and I LOVE spending time in person with you. Keep visiting!
Image from dolphingirl2009
I know what you mean. It seems like since we have been there to see all of you and are back home that there is more of a missing than prior to our visit. We enjoyed being able to see your family (not just Haddon) whenever we wanted to. I know the Lord has you where He wants you at this time in your life, but I have to say that selfishly I would love for your family to be close enough to Garrison for us to see you a lot more.
I’m with you on this. Nothing compares to just knowing that they are there. I live in Midland, TX. My dad is a pastor in the St. Louis area. My grandparents live in Southern Ohio. My in laws live in Moundridge, KS. My sister-in-law lives in Wichita, KS.
It’s been a while since we’ve been to Kansas and should be there at the end of the month to visit. Looking forward to sitting and doing nothing with them.