Monday, November 5, 2012

Out of sadness came joy

Have you ever felt clueless and shocked? Sadly, our grandson's girlfriend's mom died of cancer this week. We went to the wake yesterday and saw a woman we recognized from twenty years ago standing up front. We hugged, and I asked how she knew the deceased. Her response shocked me.

"She's my sister."

It was like old home week during that visitation. Our friend's husband used to be a well known disc jockey who we followed years ago when we used to dance several times a week. The room filled to capacity with many of our old acquaintances. There were hugs, greetings, laughter and lots of catching up. I think it must be that way in heaven. The joy of reconnecting must keep a perpetual smile on our loved ones' faces. What could have been a very sad occassion turned out to be a joyful reunion.

I witnessed one of the nicest touches ever at this wake. The family had positioned a basket filled with free copies of the deceased's favorite book, Heaven is for Real, on a table for mourners. What a lovely and thoughtful gesture. 


14 comments:

Allison Schreiber Lee said...

Linda,
I'm sure your grandson's girlfriend's mom was there in spirit, welcoming you all together to reconnect. What a wonderful tribute to her.

Sioux Roslawski said...

What a post, Linda. Your words brought tears to my eyes. You MUST work this up into a submission to somewhere. Your idea of heaven could bring solace to many...

Val said...

I have that book, but I haven't read it yet.

I got my current job due to a personal interaction at my dad's funeral fourteen years ago. No coincidences.

Karen Lange said...

"Old home week" is a phrase my Mom used to use (and I still do too!). It really fits the bill, doesn't it? Praying for you and your gang through your recent challenges.

Susan said...

Hi Linda....I send condolences to all who knew and loved her.

I never heard of that kind of tribute (the book) but think it's wonderful! Wow! What a great idea. I'd have to think about what book I would have for my wake. Hmmmmm. Something to think about. Susan

jabblog said...

Such gatherings often turn into wonderful parties but the guest of honour is absent, in body at least.

Janet Smart said...

I send my condolences. What a unique touch to the service.

Susan Sundwall said...

Linda, Our sermon yesterday was all about funerals and grief, but with the joy of hope beyond. The pastor's son, adopted from awful circumstances, played "When The Saints Go Marching In," on drums and harmonica. Hard to sing when tears threaten, but I did. Heaven is for real, for sure.

Anonymous said...

Lovely gesture indeed, in the midst of the sadness.

Kim Lehnhoff said...

That's the purpose of the funeral - to allow the living to welcome and comfort each other as the departed goes to their "homecoming". The tears, mixed with laughter, help send them on that journey.

Think of the grief that was eased by just your being there (as it was eased for you).

What book would YOU want people to have at your wake? That's such a great idea, and an interesting question.

Mevely317 said...

What a self-less lady, wanting to provide some comfort to her friends and family!
I was headed out of town this morning when I read your words (rider, not driving!), and had to elbow my co-worker to read this. I'm not familiar with that book, but you can bet it's going on my library list!

Lynn said...

What a lovely gesture to give out the books. Hope all is well.

Lisa Ricard Claro said...

Lemons to lemonade . . . a bright spot for people who needed it. And the book idea is so thoughtful.

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

Hi Linda -

My condolences to your grandson's girlfriend.

Families and friends seem to reconnect at weddings and funerals these days. How sad that we don't make more of an effort to keep in touch with folks.

Oh, I love the idea of giving out the free books! I also enjoyed Heaven is for Real.

Blessings,
Susan