Easter is a day that is celebrated in many ways around the world and for many faiths and religions this is one of the Holiest weeks of the year. I am writing this dignity post today not to talk about the origins of Easter but to talk about what this day has meant to me, especially as a young child. Outside of Christmas, Easter was a big event in my family. It was a day when we would dress in our outfits that were brought specifically for Easter Sunday and we would go to my grandparents’ house and celebrate family.
I was recently looking through a photo album that my mother made for me and there were several pictures of me, my two younger brothers and my cousin from Easter’s past. We looked good. Easter was like a fashion show and the streets were lined with cars as families put on their best clothes to see who could look the best. It was the one day in Boston where you did not hear about crime or shootings. It was a day to be with family and share stories. It was a day that we put aside our disagreements and broke bread. These were the happiest moments of my childhood.
I loved listening to the adults tell stories. I loved playing with my brothers and my cousin and hearing “Don’t get your Easter clothes dirty.” The music would be loud, and family would be dancing the latest dances like the bump and the funky chicken (look it up on YouTube). I was not the best dancer as a kid so I would just watch. Joy and laughter filled the air on that day and the food was the best part well, after all the candy we got in our Easter baskets or spending the night before coloring eggs. Even in the most difficult times in our lives Easter always brought joy to our family.
We are all grown up now with our own families and we are all spread across this country. My grandparents are gone, and my cousin Craig died way before his time, but those Easter memories still live on in my heart. They remind me of the importance of family and friends.
In these days where there is struggle and hardship it can be hard to talk about celebrations and good times. I feel guilty sometimes when I am celebrating a joyful occasion when I know others are not as fortunate as I am. It can be difficult to find that balance. It was my mother who taught me that even in the most difficult times we can still enjoy life and give back to others. My mother raised the three of us on her own. I know there were hard times for her, but we never knew because she created a life for us filled with joy. My mother lived paycheck to paycheck but still found time to give to others. She was our light during the most difficult times.
My brother Tracy talks about a new day for redemption, but each day is also an opportunity to celebrate the people you love, rejoice in the new day, and to give to those who need help. Maybe we cannot fix the world, but we can find moments where we can bring joy even in the most difficult times.
“The ship of my life may or may not be sailing on calm and amiable seas. The challenging days of my existence may or may not be bright and promising. Stormy or sunny days, glorious or lonely nights, I maintain an attitude of gratitude. If I insist on being pessimistic, there is always tomorrow. Today I am blessed.” Maya Angelou
Charles Redd RN
Dignity Freedom Fighter
Dignity Freedom Fighter 