Sunday, August 11 at 8:00 a.m. marked the day Mom stepped into heaven after a long and weary journey with cancer. Finally home. In the words of David Phelps:
Friends and family came from Illinois, Georgia, Indiana, New York, Missouri, and Pennsylvania. They brought with them words of comfort. They told stories of how Mom touched their lives. They pressed hope into our hearts with their hugs. Local friends dropped off food. Pastors prayed with us. Many cried with us.
Over forty family members gathered at the cemetery on that cloudless Thursday. Each one quietly placed a flower on the casket, signifying their final good-byes. I'll always remember the spontaneous verses of "Amazing Grace" sung by a family who has experienced the story of God's grace over multiple generations.
But when the last notes die away and loved ones have waved their tearful farewells, what then? What does a family do the day after the services, the cemetery, the formal observances?
Sometimes I think God whispers ideas into our hearts.
As we enter the new normal, we already have have some good memories. I think Mom would have liked our idea, too.
What has helped you and your family in seasons of grief?
A wonderful way to deal with grief the day after the last goodbye... cleaning and freshening, eating and talking, weeding and bonding. Mom must have loved her family's togetherness and presence. Lovely, Sarah.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Jo Ann. Mom did have a way of fostering family togetherness - a legacy to carry on.
DeleteI think somehow being able to tangibly 'do' something has always helped when my heart is hurting. You explained it so beautifully here, Sarah. Once again, I am touched by your gentle honesty and well written thoughts from the heart.
ReplyDeleteI appreciate your thoughts, Julie. Thanks for your encouragement.
DeleteWhat a great idea to have kept this mini journal of how you all spent your time after your mom's passing. We tell stories to remember the funny things about the person we miss.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Sherry. Sometimes I find myself laughing and crying at the same time! Stories seem so important at a time like this. They help us remember . . .
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