Setting The Empty Chair for Christmas

Some do this as a Christmas tradition.

Danny is the first to arrive. He always is. Before he can take off his coat, the bottle is open and he is telling tales of shopping while swinging his arms like some suicidal puppet.

Michael and Madeline arrive next. Michael takes the coats and scarfs into the bedroom and returns to help arrange the table while she goes into the kitchen. While Danny is selecting the music on his second glass, Mike is allowing the wine to breathe.

Barb arrives giving excuses for Hanks absence due to work. She gives up her coat to Mike who gives her a look that is not seasonal then glances at me. We all know Hank doesn’t work on Sunday.

Tom, Sarah, Amy and Andy arrive. The house is growing louder and the kitchen is getting crowded with the giggling and the clink of bottles. Amy and Andy check out the tree and then head for Pete who has been patiently waiting for some attention.

Susan arrives looking like a model and with brief greetings to the gentlemen standing by the table sashays into the kitchen with Danny in hot pursuit.

The men share stories of the past year and their automobile problems, new neighbors, extended family, health problems and latest gizmos and gadgets keeping an eye on Amy and Andy rolling and tumbling around the house.

The ladies started their parade out of the kitchen each carrying a steamy bowl or dish still wrapped in foil to be placed on previously arranged hot plates and trivets. Their smiling faces flushed by the heat of the kitchen (or the wine?) direct the crew to assigned seats before removing their aprons. As everyone sits, new bottles are placed on the table to refresh glasses.

Then there is a moment of silence.

Everyone turns to the head of the table where a setting is place in front of an empty chair. Glasses are raised for a quiet prayer and praise for the person who will not be attending this year.

Usually Pete will break the moment with a bark and suddenly the tears turn into laughter and stories abound as the feast begins. The children might not understand but will hear legionary tales so the legacy will continue for the picture placed back on the wall.

Until all the chairs are empty.

What would have been 35th Anniversary.