Happy Birthday Derek

Derek's birthday celebration was surreal on several levels yesterday.  We had family over for the first time, including Derek's parents.  That in an of itself felt unreal. But just before they arrived, we watched live tv coverage of people looting and burning police cars in downtown Seattle.  I feel so many feelings!  

I am encouraged by the immediate response of the Minneapolis PD, firing the officers, and charging the officers involved with murder.  The system is working.  But the pent up rage (including pandemic fueled frustration) is pouring out into the streets across the country.  

So in our home, birthday candles were lit--as only a few miles away, cop cars burned--spray painted with the words "murderer." This morning Derek is standing guard downtown.  Trying to keep the peace under the dark cloud caused by those in his profession who do not stand for what is right. 

He is not--by the way--turning 88.  But this is one of my favorite new traditions.  Use the candles you have :)