I've said it before, the Beatles music permeated my early years. So, the first song on my life's "soundtrack" will be: Hey Jude. The song was written by Paul McCartney (genius) to comfort John Lennon's son Julian when John Lennon and his first wife divorced. And although I don't hear it often, the song evokes in me a strong emotional response.
At the time it came out, my brother Bill enlisted in the Air Force and was sent to Korea. We were close and I struggled with the separation. When he came home on leave after basic training, I remember being on an escalator at the airport headed to where we would pick him up. When we reached him everyone was talking and hugging but I couldn't say a word. I was afraid to speak because I knew if I did I would start crying. I was only 5 years old and was confused by my emotions, how could I be so happy and yet want to cry?
Then the day came when we had to take him back. We took group photos and I think you can tell by my face I was on the brink of a break down.On the way home I sat in the back seat with David crying inconsolably. Then over the air waves floated Hey Jude. David made them turn it up. I sang through my tears and was comforted.
Weeping may last for the night, but a shout of joy comes in the morning.Ps. 30:5
6 comments:
I remember that day so well. Just looking at the pictures makes a lump grow in my throat. None of us wanted to let Bill go. I remember that nothing we said to Cat helped her stop crying. I am so so so glad he got home alive. Memories.....memories.
i am crying this is the saddest post....the picture of you hugging Bill breaks my heart. On a different note Bill you are so hot to me right now.
I remember that day that Bill left, also like it was yesterday and that dress of yours. What a flash. How old are we and how much time has passed? Seems like only yesterday. love suelaz
Bill was always a great "daddy" to you and then to Tom. He loved to hold you both and take care of you. And you see it again with his daughter. I remember how much you didn't want Bill to go. Such a little girl and soooo many feelings you had to deal with - cancer, separation, divorce. Any wonder you have always needed to connect.
Cheer up everyone!
Look at the last picture!
That tells the real story!
I have a hard time with my own soldier leaving, but I can't even imagine doing it at 5 years old! You are my hero.
PS-Sweet orange belt... even back then you were a good accessorizer.
Post a Comment