of old, majestic things

Age can be a defeating thing. But not here in Montesano, Washington with David's relatives. We met up with David's distant relative, Mary Fran, and her 91 year-old mother, Fran. They are amazing women who have lived an incredible, full life.

Mary Fran prepared a feast of a picnic that we ate in a state park hidden in the understory of a great forest here at the foot of the Olympic Mountains. Some in our church have been talking recently about the scriptural metaphor of christ's table offered to us. Well, in lake sylvia state park, we received God's blessing of food, family, and gospel.

The forest here is ridiculous. I have never in my life seen trees so tall, so old. Mary Fran points out the huge stumps that remain from being logged over a century ago. Meanwhile, Fran (who, I remind you, is 91yrs old) hikes right along with us up the mountain, over the rocks, and with each step displays life. I suddenly realize that the ancient trees and Fran are speaking in incredible unison -- age is a small thing conquered by life.