Going Back To My Hometown For Our Family Reunion

My husband and I along with our two daughters drove more than five hundred miles for our family reunion. When we arrived in the sleepy little town of Mullins, South Carolina; I felt the butterflies of nervousness evolve. My very inward parts felt magnified as I saw locations within my hometown that reminded me of happy and sad occasions. The oppressive yolk of racism became a reminder as I passed different locations. The old movie theater did not allow blacks to sit on the first floor, only the balcony. In the 1960's in certain restaurants and public places downtown, signs were posted that said, "for colored or for whites only." It was a difficult time for our nation but we overcame those days. I was also overwhelmed with the joyous memories of walking downtown with my mother as we shopped in various stores. That joy I felt, exceeded any previous sadness. I was glad to be home again in this docile little town. I could not wait to see my family and friends.

We arrived at a location beside railroad tracks where I use to play. It was beside the Mullins water tower that is still elevated over my beloved area. The place where the reunion was held, would not be considered as fancy from the outside. We parked on sand and little tender grass sprouts. Once inside, I could see the place had been remodeled quite tastefully. There were fine linen napkins and table cloths. Appetizers of salad, fruit and other morsels were discretely displayed. Cousins walked up casually and welcomed us. Some I did not recognize because they were the children and grandchildren of my cousins. Suddenly, I saw cousins that I grew up with. I immediately ran and hugged them. It was so good to see them. I introduced my family as they proudly revealed their lineage. What a joy it was to see at least one hundred different family members.

During the family reunion, we encouraged our young that they could accomplish anything. We acknowledged the historical accomplishments of such family members as Bessie Coleman, the first black female pilot in the United States. She is presently displayed in the Wright Brothers museum. We are a family that have accomplished major things in the fields of education, politics and public service. The thing I have found my family is most proud of is, our love and respect for Jehovah God and his son Jesus. This makes our family close and in constant desire to gather every two years to support each other. I am truly thankful for that desire because we always acknowledge that no matter how far we have to travel, we need each other. Our reunions are vital and they help us maintain unity. I wanted to make sure that my daughters attended so that they can learn the same appreciation for the family unit. Going back to my roots not only brought back memories but it truly helped me to feel not only was I home but that I am really a part of something special, a family.