Curator’s Corner - Curator / Caretaker Frank T. Meninno

“There are far better things ahead than any we leave behind.” –C.S. Lewis
A few thoughts and wishes as we end 2021 on a brighter note than 2020:
Another strange year in the books! We all hoped for a much better 2021 than 2020, and I
think that mostly rang true. After a slow start, things continued to improve with the pandemic.
Places slowly began to reopen, and even if that might have been done under some strict
guidelines, it was good to see cinemas, stores, cultural institutions, government offices, and
public spaces take steps towards returning to normalcy. I for one do not miss waiting in line to
be counted before entering a store, and the one way aisle markings that frustrated me (it seems
I was usually at the wrong end of those aisles!) have become a distant memory.
One of the major focuses of 2021 was the full reopening of schools and colleges. There
have been a few issues here and there, but it sure is a nice sight to see students back in school,
playing sports, participating in musical programs, and getting back to seeing their classmates
face to face. There is something inherently good about fellowshipping together, and seeing our
houses of worship and other community groups gathered again is good for the soul.
Family events are returning too. Attending a grandson’s summer birthday party was
much more enjoyable this year. The party was held outdoors, but it was good to see more
people around, some family I had not seen in a while, and of course, it was good that the kids
could have a few friends over to celebrate. Travel made a comeback too as quarantines were
lifted. Several of my friends recently traveled to Florida to see family or to take long-delayed
vacations.
Shortages still seem to be an issue (at least there is plenty of toilet paper on the shelves
now) and I have become used to the fact that I might not find everything I might be looking for
on a shopping trip. We have actually completed most of our Christmas shopping, so getting out
and about well before “Black Friday” madness has paid dividends. I think in a few weeks the
shortages of favorite toys and gadgets will confound many gift givers.
At the Museum, we recently hosted two home-schooled groups. The students were a
pleasure to have in and they were well behaved and well prepared for their visit. I wish we
could connect with more of these groups and make learning history a great experience! I wish
too that we will connect next year with our second graders whom we have missed for two years
now.
As we put one year behind us, and look forward to the coming year, I wish you a time of
peace, fellowshipping, unity, health, reflection, and hope. The holiday season seems to be the
right time to get ourselves ready for great things to come. To one and all, I wish you a Merry
Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and all the fullness of the blessings of this season.