I recently came back from a short business trip in Toronto. Initially, my intent was to go up, work, spend a bit of time touring the city and come back home. A quick drive up and back.

Then, I remembered that I have family, cousins and an aunt and uncle who live up in Toronto. I ventured out of my comfort zone and I asked to see who would be free to meet and visit. And am I ever glad I did. I had the pleasure of spending time with Paul Gallagher, David McLachlan and Uncle Murray and Aunt Jackie Whale.

Before the reunion, calling up family to let them know I was in town would not have been on my radar. In fact, this was probably the first time I’ve done this. I’m uncomfortable calling people that I don’t know well, even if they are family.

I have this “tape” that goes inside my head saying things like:

• “What will they think of you?”
• “Will they even know who you are?”
• “Well, you really don’t know them.”
• “What are you going to talk about?”
• “Are you sure they’re going to want to see you?”

The reunion (as well as Facebook) has opened up the door for me to connect with my family, at least for myself. It allowed us to meet in person, to connect, to share our stories, and to create new ones. And yet, I want more.

The moments spent with my family in Toronto have been great. I learned about my cousins whom I didn’t know at all before the reunions. I got to spend time with my aunt and uncle who I knew little about and did get to hear wonderful stories. For the first time, I’m starting to feel a sense of family connectedness.

I also enjoyed lunch with another cousin, Susan Vinet who lives close to me. Although we’ve been in the same state for over twenty years, this is the second time we’ve met outside of the reunion. Again, my concerned was “What are we going to talk about?” Let me say, we found plenty to say and none of it had to do with politics 😉 .

I’m fascinated about our family history and heritage. Our diverse talents and skills are to be admired. And let’s not forget our war heroes among us who have sacrificed their lives for us as our younger generations dedicate theirs to serve and protect our country.

I guess what I’m saying is spending time with relatives would not have been possible if it hadn’t been for the family reunions. The event was the icebreaker, the first step in getting to know one another. My hope is that we get to meet and know one another after the reunion, that we continue to connect with each other, spend time sharing some of our experiences and grow from our time together.

I’m also sending an open invitation to you. I’d love to see you, spend time and chat, share stories. Driving along 81 near Winchester, VA or the Shenandoah Mountains? I’m not very far. Want to visit Washington DC? I’ll be happy to show you the area.

Looking forward to see who’s the next relative I get to meet. Maybe it’s you?

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