Dale Says

I’m thankful for a lot this Thanksgiving … after all, there’s a lot to be thankful for. And this year, I’m especially thankful for Aunt Margaret. Aunt Margaret was my mother’s sister, and she was also my Godmother. The part about being my Godmother was not a big deal to her, and she told me she had so many Godchildren she couldn’t keep track of them all. But it was important to me, and I think she knew that.

I spent time with Aunt Margaret when I was young — at family gatherings and when I got dropped off at her home when my parents were on vacation. In those days Aunt Margaret called most of the shots, and few people wanted to cross her. But I also remember Aunt Margaret’s playful side. When things got tense, she would get a twinkle in her eyes, make a joke, and things would lighten up.

I enjoyed Aunt Margaret at Mohatt cousin reunions. She would greet me in a serious manner, and then ask a question that would make me squirm. Then she would let me off the hook with a sly comment or a joke. After an encounter with Aunt Margaret I usually felt she knew more about me than I would like her to. And I loved her skits.

She would disappear into a nearby room, and then reappear in a black robe, carrying a large bound book. She would make her way to a podium, close her eyes, and bow her head. After a pause, she would begin to read in a solemn voice:
Hickory Dickory Dock,
The mouse ran up the clock..

Then, as if she were giving a sermon, she would explain (in detail) the meaning behind each line. Why did the mouse run up the clock? What was behind this escapade? What does it mean?
The clock struck one,
The mouse ran down!
Hickory Dickory Dock.

Again, she detailed the why’s and wherefore’s behind the mouse’s actions. By the end we were in stitches, and she would finish to our laughter and applause. Then just as seriously, she would turn and walk away. I loved the way she entertained us, and the way she made us feel. And I know my life was better for her being in it.