If you are a Bedlamite, you have probably heard Richard say, "There's no crying at Grandpa's house!" This is then explained to the incredulous new listener to imply that if Grandpa hears the slightest indication of a desire, it is immediately granted, and thus no crying ever becomes necessary. You want a cookie? No crying, here's a cookie. You want to go swimming? No crying, let's open up the pool.
While this works great for most things, Grandpa has learned over the last few years that sometimes what is most desired, he cannot provide. Not even for himself. This weekend a dear friend passed the one year anniversary of the loss of her sister. Her tears reminded Grandpa that there is crying in Grandpa's house quite often as we remember other losses. Just this evening a tv show reminded us that some tears come quickly though unbidden.
While most of the tears in Grandpa's house result from overmuch laughter, as we laugh so hard at some pun or other twist of language that our eyes water, there are some that slip out in quiet moments as we hear a special song, are reminded of a special place, or a special person. So, Grandpa, there is crying in your house, and we pray that there always will be.
So if sometime you feel like you need a little crying to release the pain, come on over to Grandpa's house, and we can cry together. Then, after the pain is eased for a time, most likely, since the place seems to be frequented by Bedlamites, somebody will crack a joke and we will laugh together until the tears start to flow freely though our smiles once more.
