The Gathering Question

Challenging the Finality of Farewells with Present Connection

I received an invitation to a very small gathering last week from an acquaintance. I didn’t know who would be there or even how many people were supposed to attend. Despite this uncertainty, I agreed to go because I realized I don’t get out as much as I should. Although I live in Columbus, I haven’t worked here for the last fourteen years, and as a result, I don’t know nearly as many people in town as I should for someone who has lived here for 25 years.

Upon arriving, I walked into the room and took the opportunity to get to know my acquaintance a bit better. Interestingly, she and I were friends on social media, yet we had never officially conversed. I took a seat and eagerly awaited the arrival of the other guests. When the door finally opened, three subsequent people walked in and immediately got wide-eyed, each saying, “Brandon!” I could tell their reactions stemmed from the shock of seeing me in person, but I have to tell you... it was an amazing feeling.

Here’s why.

All of these people are from different parts and times of my life, making the experience surreal. I had no idea they all knew each other. It was a bit like a scene from one of my favorite movies of all time, "Big Fish." In this poignant scene, Will Bloom shares a story with his father, Edward Bloom, who is on his deathbed. In this tale, Will describes carrying his father to a river, imagining a reunion with friends from Edward's fantastical tales. As Will shares this final, imagined journey, the vivid presence of characters from Edward’s stories symbolizes the fulfillment of Edward's wish, creating a deeply moving farewell.

I’ll be honest, even though I have watched this movie a dozen or more times, this scene always brings tears to my eyes.

Attending this small gathering gave me the same feeling. There was something beautiful about being around these people from my past and present, all together at the same time, while I was still alive. As I sat there surrounded by these unexpected but familiar faces, I couldn't help but feel a profound sense of gratitude. In that moment, I had a realization- we often don't get to experience the joy of being surrounded by all the people who have touched our lives until we're no longer there to witness it. Or said another way, we usually don't realize how much we're loved and how connected we are until it's too late to see it for ourselves.

I wonder how we can change that?

Question

1. How can I actively create opportunities for gatherings and connections with the important people in my life while I am still alive, rather than waiting for moments of serendipity or chance encounters?

Peace,

Brandon