His Departure

Part Six.

" Lindsay, pass me the soy sauce, please, " Jenna pleads as she prepares a piece of sushi in between her chopsticks. I do as she says, putting on my widest grin. A few hours from now, it will be a new year, and I've planned that I will be bidding this year adieu, and celebrating the new one, with a huge grin plastered across my face. I fill my plate with all sorts of delicacies. My huge family is once again huddled up around the huge dining table in my nana's living room, where most of the festivities are heralded. I take quick looks at all my relatives, and appreciate all the love that is being sent to one another. There is nothing like family, and today, I am going to appreciate it.

The feast doesn't last much long, for there is about 20 souls consuming the food, and most of them haven't eaten since noon. Soon enough, everyone is handed a glass of wine, and speech time commences. Our family traditions declare that the oldest one is to speak. My nana stands up, takes out a piece of paper, and clears her throat.

" Family. It is a word , when said, can have so many meanings. A family is that whose members stretch out their arms for you, when you feel like all doors have been closed. They are the ones whom you can share your sorrows and concerns with, and can be faithful and certain that they care about you, and will do everything in their might to guide you. Four years ago, I wasn't qualified to stand here, Joseph was. He would've been so proud to see you all here together, to sense this powerful bond that is formed between all of us, a bond so solid, that no one could ever break.

My sons, I am positive that if he were here, he would be so proud of you both, for I know I am.

My daughters, your father would be extremely pleased to see the kind of lives you've both been leading, and I am, too. Jenna and Will, you two are amazingly strong and kind, never let that change. Tina, you are incredibly smart and beautiful, keep it up, and Lindsay, you posses a flame inside you that can move countries, don't you ever put it out. I will be asking you to sing for us in a while. Thank you all for being here, and God bless you all."

Tears are shed from every family member, even Nana. Four siblings arise and engulf their mother in an enormous hug that sends a chill down my spine. A warm tear trickles down my face, and soon enough, I find myself being hugged by all of my family members.

As soon as the hugging marathon comes to an end, Nana winks me, letting me know that it is time for some singing. I grab my guitar and stand in the middle. Jenna requests Adele's Rolling in The Deep. I obey her commands, playing the four basic chords and singing. Requests arise from all around the room , and while continuing my four-chord rythm, I sing every song requested.

About an hour ago, I stop. I glance at my watch , and smile. Two minutes till midnight.