I stand on a sandy beach, the very place my grandpa and his best friend stood fifty years ago as they stopped over during a plane trip to Florida. I never knew my grandpa, but I have seen the photograph many times that captured them smiling and having the time of their lives as they enjoyed the pristine land and air of Palm Pavilion.

Both have since passed away, and the land has changed much in half a century. My aunts, uncles, and my grandpa's best friend's son have come to gather in the same place. They lift their drinks high as the deep orange glow of the sun, setting over the Gulf of Mexico, splashes upon their faces. They toast to what was, and to what will never be again. After they sip from their glasses, they turn to my siblings and me and ask, "In fifty years, will you kids come back here and have a toast for us?"

I smile and say "Of course, but only if you come also."

I am aware of the futility of such a response, yet my mind cannot grasp life without these colorful characters of my youth, the ones who have had a part in shaping and forming so much of who I am...

Aunt Janet...

I have the fondest memories of playing in her basement. My cousins, siblings, and I would spend hours perfecting our "dance routine." We would then call all our relatives down to perform before them. It was her stability, her balanced life, and her creativity that helped me to understand what quality time really costs -- only my willingness.

Uncle Denny...

Denny followed his father's love for flying. I cannot see a single-engine plane in the sky without remembering all the times he surprised my siblings and me by flying low over our house. Most times it was our only notice that he was back in the states and coming for a visit!

Aunt Jo, or "Silly" Aunt Jo, as my Caleb calls her...

Jo, whose love for kids, games, and kindness, which comes from devotion to her Creator, has truly enriched our lives.

My beloved Uncle Gary...

Gary may not even be aware of all the roles he played and the way he influenced the lives of thirteen nieces and nephews. He was grandpa, friend and mentor. Where would I be today if I had not had my Uncle Gary to read me books, take me on long walks, or let me put his long locks in ponytails?

And lastly, my own dear mother...

Mom's lasting legacy will be her gifts of laughter, unconditional love, and faith in Christ.

I ponder all of this as I leave them and take a walk by the sea. The sound of their laughter drifts away as the lull of the waves calls to me. The dolphins dance as I think of the changes the land has gone through in fifty years. The waves have done their duty, creating more sand and beach on which to walk. Each grain's beauty is full of memories of time long past. I, like the land, have been forever changed. I take the good from those who have come before me, and I have learned...

Fifty more years have now passed...

Come with me cousins, brother and sisters. Let us raise our toast high in the air and remember those who made us the way we are.

Come, meet me by the sea.