Wednesday, September 18, 2013
A portion of this evening was spent at a MADD Board meeting. Appropriately so, each meeting is opened with a moment of silence dedicated to those we have lost and to those altered forever by a choice. Before proceeding with the rest of the agenda it has been our tradition for a member to present a question to the group. This evenings question – “what is your favorite sound?” In typical fashion our answers were a wonderful mix of humor and heart. Sometimes when I hear the question I silently beg the round to start at another end of the table allowing time for me to think of an answer – no time was needed this evening as I know the answer to this question as well as I know my own name.
My favorite sound is my children’s laughter. From the first moment they were old enough to interact with each other and romp around a crib or playpen the lyrical sounds that escaped their mouths turned the corners of mine upward. As they grew and their play became more intent their laughter grew. It came so easy, so spontaneous and free. I have vivid memories of quietly peeking around corners into where they were playing and spying on them watching the delight in their faces as they giggled together. The sound so infectious I could feel a chuckle welling up from my toes. Once a little older, laughter none the less, but sometimes with a mischievous undertone as they found ways to push each other’s buttons. And then, the knowing laughter that comes from two people who have shared so much and understand each other so well…
Much has changed over the last decade. So much in our lives is different. And yet – there is much that remains the same. There is that undeniable knowing bond that transcends all. There is that sound that I am fortunate to still hear, same but different. My favorite sound is my children’s laughter.
