HOME

'My Brothers, in this hour of consecration I again remind you of that sacred thing called home. There is a magic in that little word, home; it is a mystic circle that surrounds comforts and virtues never known beyond its hallowed limits. It is the cradle - the very bulwark of our civilization. Ever since you first knelt at the Alter of DeMolay, you have been committed to the high purpose of being a better son, a better husband, a better father and a better man as the years move on. As a Chevalier, I dedicate you anew to the DeMolay ideal of home and all that word implies.'

We have been busy...again. Seems these days , we are always busy. Sometimes it's tiring, but we are enjoying the time we spend with our kids, because they wont be kids for much longer. I know plenty of people with kids the same age as mine and they hardly spend any time together. I think that's really sad.

Our oldest son Andrew is halfway through his 20th year. Both our boys have committed much of their time over the years to a youth organization called DeMolay. Last week, Andrew was conferred with the degree of Chevalier, the highest honor for an active Demolay, and is not given out very often. This will be his last year with the organization. He will be leaving a strong group with a growing membership and a dedicated team of adult leaders. Andrew has been instrumental is reviving this chapter, along with other boys support. In the photo above, he is presented with a Gavel, hand crafted by DP one of the very committed adult leaders of our group. He has watched Andrew grow from a shy young 11 year old to a confident young leader. The Gavel is a symbol of leadership and authority. The yellow cord around his neck was also awarded to him, that is his Chevalier cord. I love this Order and, all for which it stands. Its teachings for honor and respect of family and parents, patriotism and brotherhood are lessons that too often, are not learned by todays young men. HERE IS A LINK to the outline of the ceremony which was held for Andrew. The excerpt at the top of the page was taken from the ceremony of Chevalier, and sums up what I think Demolay stands for. What Mom wouldn't want her son to live by this jist?

Grandma (Keith's Mom), cousin Jocelyn and Auntie Sheila (my sister), Also Grandpa, Great Aunt Valerie and Cousin Jayden were also there. My parents couldn't attend as they are out of the country.
This is just one of the things we have been up to lately. This ceremony actually had been planned for months and was held the same day as Kayla's funeral, it made a good distraction for our family, as none of us could be in Edmonton for that sacred observance. As sad as Kayla's passing is... Life goes on. That's not said lightly. I believe we have to keep on living and keep her memory alive in our day to day actions. By sharing days like this with friends and family, we begin to heal.