The Naming of a Child

It has been a tradition in our family to name a child after a saint and also, a close relative. Usually, the first born son is named after the mother's father and the middle name after the husband's father. Such was the case for my son, Wm. after my dad and Leon after my father-in-law.

Not surprising, my grandsons middle name after both the grandfather and father, Leon and the second child after his father and grandfather, Wm.

It is a blessing to remembered in this way. Knowing that they'll not be any girls in my family, I know that no granddaughter will bear my name nor my grandmother's. Sometimes, other family members will, but I don't think it will happen and I'm resolved to it, as my neices have already named their daughters.

Several days ago, as I was reading the obits in our town, I came across a big surprise. The lady that had passed on had a step-daughter named Patricia. Many years ago, I met Patricia when she came to town to visit her new step mom and step brother, Jimmy. Her dad Bob, wanted to introduce her to someone she could hang out with, her age, while here in town.

I don't remember too much as it was many years ago. I often wonder if you touch someone's life, would they know you years later. I recall, she loved balony sandwiches with lots of mustard and loved to swim at the town pool. My sister Ruth, Patricia and I also went swimming at the big Alum in Sturbridge. We loss touch along the way, but, I recall someone telling me that she married her school teacher. I wasn't surprised as Patricia was an exceptional person. She always knew what she wanted and had a lot of determination.

As I read with interest that she now resides in Florida with her husband, it came as news to me that she had children. The first one was named Laura. Maybe I'm assuming that she remembered who I was, but more likely, it was an innocent coincidence, but it surely put a smile on my face.

You never know in life--what you do or say, may make an impression on someone. Sometimes, the smallest things make a large difference in the life of someone, unknown to you.

She must have made an impression on me, as I remember and can still invision in fact, her making that balony sandwich, while sitting at the picnic table with us, a few gigles as girls will, and lying on the beach soaking in the sun.

I wonder if she remembers me.