The Family Table

Isn't it funny how we put so much time into building the perfect living room. The big screen TV, the couch and love seat. The perfect place for family and friends. We spend countless hours a week there its our sanctuary from our day to day.
    To me its funny that when company arrives we always end up at the family table. Sometimes we break out a board game or dominoes. Sometimes its a cup of coffee with some memories thrown in.  Its not just my house where this happens. It seems this happens when we visit others. Whether it be my dad's house or my Mother in-law's house it seems that is where we gravitate to.
    I think that is because at one time in our now too busy society the family table held a place of reverence and signified family. It was welcome to all and signified coming together. 
   When I was growing up I remember the visit to my Aunt's and Uncle's houses. I remember those Saturday nights vividly. Occasionally it was a meal that brought us all together but more times than not it was all about being together.  The laughter and the conversations I can still hear today. As a child if you listened you got to know one another. It was an honor to sit around these great men and women's
tables. Those memories are all that are left of those men and women. Asking someone to sit at your table was not an empty gesture it meant something. You were considered family.
   It is something we do far less today. Always something more important. The TV show you can't miss or someone has plans away from the house.  We try to at least plan a couple of meals a week where everyone sits at the table. Those days there is no telling who may show up. That's fine we always cook more than enough. I feel myself listening more than talking because it gives me a chance to observe and learn, just like mama taught me when I was young. You will get your chance to speak I promise.
    Just a few thoughts about a piece of furniture that does not get near the respect it deserves. The family table. The word family says it all. Make time this week for family.