I had the privilege of returning to the Old Country (as my mother and grandmother would have called it) a few years ago. They were, of course, referring to Lebanon. There was something about returning to my homeland that ignited a deep stirring in my soul, bringing together the elements of my life and those of my ancestors and allowing them to meet and to permeate and then to solidify who I have become and the life I now have. It brought me such great joy and a sense of connection and familiarity to the inner recesses of my soul. The uniting of these worlds helped me define what is of value to me and I have found myself refining those thoughts since my return. It was truly a beautiful experience and I find that the older I get the more I long to recapture those feeling of connectiveness. Those moments of connection can happen in many ways and I savor each and every time it happens. It usually occurs in the most unsuspecting ways. Sometimes, when I am cooking for and with my family, our wine glasses are full and the aroma of garlic and herbs and a delicious meal wafting throughout my kitchen will do it. Rolling grape leaves with my daughters as we laugh and reminisce about all the women who have done this before and along side of us in this sacred ritual is another favorite. Preparing Sunday lunch for my family as I set out the generational appetizers of pickles, olives, and cheeses as my mother did helps me as I enjoy this most sacred time. And, interestingly enough, a day at the Daou winery in Paso Robles.
For me, there is something familiar to my heart when I walk upon these grounds. Perhaps, it is because I know the family that owns it is from Lebanon. But I am more inclined to think it is because I have intentionally chosen this place of beauty and serenity and I have no other thought than to relax and fully enjoy the luxury it offers my heart and soul.
Irregardless of the weather I will choose to sit outside. The combination of the cool breeze and warm sun stirs the deepest contentment within me. I usually go in the fall and spring so there will be a fire in the fireplace. I am given a soft warm blanket which will drape my lap as I enjoy a nice glass of wine and a lovely selection of my favorite charcuterie. A plate with beautiful cheeses, meats, olives, breads, honey, nuts, and lovely pates. I usually share this space and time with someone I love. And then, I just sit and savor all that is around me. There is something in this richness that touches my core and every good recollection of my life comes to my mind. I am reminded I must do this more often.
In all these moments I relish the tapestry that is my life. All the threads of what has been are woven together to make something that will endure beyond the moment I am in. I also know that this tapestry is not finished as my horizon and my inheritance continue to meet and I contemplate what is still left to be. This is a part of who I am and that cannot be disputed or changed. I am grateful for those share this place with me and I am honored that we are here together. I have chosen to embrace the beauty of it all.
Tom and Nancy’s Journeys 