The Japanese have a term, kenzoku, which translated literally means “family.” The connotation suggests a bond between people who have made a similar commitment and who possibly therefore share a similar destiny. It implies the presence of the deepest connection of friendship, of lives lived as comrades from the distant past.
I like that. Not necessarily blood connection, but a connection of heart. Yes, I like that.
Not everyone is kenzoku. Sometimes the most improbable is the most likely. Strands of life stretching invisibly, touching and making their impression whether good or bad...family.
Kenzoku is cherished, given value though the time meted to physical connection is minimal. Reunited, kenzoku revives with a flourish, as if time stood still. Family. Friend.
Loss of kenzoku is startling, with a sharp intake of breath and tearing of the eyes and the grieving is physical. Memories surface and you grab, afraid they will go amiss and you will lose again. The urge for another opportunity to hug, smile, appreciate...simply existing with love, peace and familiarity with this piece of kenzoku, this family...is overwhelming and the tears flow with abandon.
To you, Tom, kenzoku, with your open, caring heart you have reached out, touched and affected so many. You sought, heard and accepted God's call and responded with generosity and zeal. You encouraged with example, questioned with genuine desire to learn, and graced us with your life complete. You are loved, respected, missed and grieved, but you lessened our misery by following your heart...loving our Gaynell and loving the Lord.
Inadequate words, these, but I think you understand. Kenzoku...always!
I like that. Not necessarily blood connection, but a connection of heart. Yes, I like that.
Not everyone is kenzoku. Sometimes the most improbable is the most likely. Strands of life stretching invisibly, touching and making their impression whether good or bad...family.
Kenzoku is cherished, given value though the time meted to physical connection is minimal. Reunited, kenzoku revives with a flourish, as if time stood still. Family. Friend.
Loss of kenzoku is startling, with a sharp intake of breath and tearing of the eyes and the grieving is physical. Memories surface and you grab, afraid they will go amiss and you will lose again. The urge for another opportunity to hug, smile, appreciate...simply existing with love, peace and familiarity with this piece of kenzoku, this family...is overwhelming and the tears flow with abandon.
To you, Tom, kenzoku, with your open, caring heart you have reached out, touched and affected so many. You sought, heard and accepted God's call and responded with generosity and zeal. You encouraged with example, questioned with genuine desire to learn, and graced us with your life complete. You are loved, respected, missed and grieved, but you lessened our misery by following your heart...loving our Gaynell and loving the Lord.
Inadequate words, these, but I think you understand. Kenzoku...always!
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