It happened!
Troy Todd met all of his new Cotter family members on Saturday, July 28, in Big Spring, Texas. It was a remarkable day!
My brother Gene, my wife Ruth Lynn, my daughter Shari and her two children, and I arrived on Friday. As we walked into the foyer of the church, it was an experience beyond belief. Here I was . . looking into the eyes of my 74 year old cousin . . a man I had never even knew existed . . and we were hugging each other as long lost relatives. I was able to get and give the first hug, but over the next 24 hours, the hugs went on and on.
Troy's only living aunt, age 95, was there to meet him for the first time. His two 80+ year old uncles also greeted their unknown nephew. Several cousins and second cousins hugged. Four of Troy's cousins from the other side of his family came to join in the celebration. And that's exactly what it was . . a great celebration.
One of the highlights of the day came as the aunt, two uncles, and Troy sat around a table in a quiet room . . and talked about Troy's father. We gave them plenty of space to just share old stories. For Troy, these were many of the only stories he had ever heard about his long unacknowledged father. I didn't get to hear much of that conversation. I would have loved to have recorded it, but it was a private conversation between those who knew and loved Reuben Cotter. Troy deserved it!
When you see me or members of my family, just ask us about Troy Todd. There is so much more to tell and to say. It's just not possible here. My heart can't take it!
Someone has asked me how Troy feels about all of this. I would suggest, of course, that you talk with Troy. But . . my feelings are this. He is like a new man . . a man who has spent 74 years questioning, hurting, and living in fear . . because he didn't know his roots. Now that is all over. He has family. He has roots. He has a father.
A little preaching! That's exactly what our heavenly father wants to do in our lives. He wants to claim his rightful place as our father. I believe Troy Todd can identify with that!
