The Sandwich generation – we are the people who are in the middle of growing kids and aging parents – some of us are further towards onr side, or becoming an open face sandwich than others – but speaking in all these analogies, I hope you understand what I mean. And we can use the sandwich generation terminology for more than just family. 

But in the classic use of the phrase, I hope you understand what I mean. These are people who are sometimes responsible – and often/should enjoy the blessings – of having both sides of their lives – pulls on their time – in 2 worlds… the kids and the parents… and often there comes heartaches and stretched time schedules for all folks.

Now, let’s conceptualize us in between the layers (where I am, blessedly) – not playing both sides, but in engaged in both sides… both sides with freshness and savoring inserts to my sandwich. 

On the kids side – well there are fresh new adventures, spicy and dicey conversations and continuous needs – so fresh lettuce, tomato slices, some onions just half that side because differing kids have different lifestyles and preferences. Fresh, novel, and even if not always appreciated, maybe that freshness will be, someday… 

On the parents side, (for me it’s just my mom now, plus aunts and uncles, all over 80), I’m savoring these years, their golden ones, so I’m adding to my sandwich some appreciated aged cheeses, smoked bacon, maybe a pickle or two, savored preserved, appreciation… always add appreciation…

As for me? The meat in the middle? Sometimes I’m the rarest of roast beef. Well, what about beef on wick, being a local favorite back home. Or some exciting falafel even tofu. Maybe just extra veggies. Turkey seems so bland but sometimes we do feel that way. Ham is a standby! Personally, I like to travel. So what about some Lebanon baloney, or Trenton pork roll.  Maybe you just need some schnitzel, and a passport…

Now let’s not forget the condiments. Sometimes I need that garlic garlic aeoli, to give it some flavor and moisture. Ugly yellow mustard is my favorite, but sometimes you need some dijon, special touch. And don’t snub your nose at ketchup, but maybe heinz 57 sauce or maybe barbecue… mayo yes, relish? Well, relish that you are in the position and that you have the blessings.

Obviously the most important infusion into all of this is LOVE. FOR WE ARE FAMILY MADE FROM LOVE MADE TO LOVE.

God gives us an opportunity to be the love in the middle on both sides, and from dust we came to toast as dust we shall be, let us love love love love in every space we’re in… 

Sometimes love until it hurts. But always LOVE to keep the flow flowing…

Amen