No Empty Chairs

In the Vision, Mission and Values of the Hatch Family, the family vision is stated as being "A united family with no empty chairs". We each hold a special place in our family circle that no one else can fill. With each person in their place, our circle is full. A place is also reserved for each of us in our Heavenly home above. It is our greatest hope that each one will do their part in this life so that we can all take our place at the table that is prepared for us in our Heavenly Father's kingdom. Orrin Hatch and Janet Kapp Perry wrote a song that tells about the family circle seated around the family table. When we were gathered together on the 4th of July weekend, I thought of this song even though not all the chairs were filled that weekend. I sure love all you guys!!

Here are the lyrics to that song:

No Empty Chairs

1. Look around our family table
Every person in his place
Memorize this happy moment
And each familiar face.

Look around our family table
Feel the love that we all share
Life is sweet and so complete with
Each loved one gathered here.

There are no empty chairs at our table
No empty feelings inside
When all those we love are together
Here side by side.

2. Time will fly, and all too quickly
Some will leave to try their wings
Empty places at our table
Will tug at our heartstrings.

But the number at our table
Will increase as children come
Bringing to our family table
Sweet innocence and fun.

We'll add a few more chairs to our table
A lot more laughter and love
As our joy is multiplied daily
To fill our cup.

3. When there comes a time for parting
There will be no tears because
We will set a grander table
Where all may live in love

There we'll wait for each dear loved one
Who will come to take his place
At the feast that lasts forever
In God's eternal place.

We'll have no empty chairs at our table
No empty feelings inside
When all those we love are together
There side by side.

May the circle not be broken
May each one return to be
Safe within this peaceful haven
Through all eternity.
We'll have no empty chairs at our table
When all are gathered above,
In heaven's home of love.