The Funeral

byWrightA

1.6K followers

10 years ago

I have been out for a few days because we had a death in the family. No condolences are necessary - it was for my fiance's great-grandmother who lived 97 years. Her legacy was full as she was able to meet her newest great-great-great-great-grandson just weeks before her death. Although there were some tears it was a joyous occasion celebrating the life of a wonderful woman who apparently didn't let anyone be a stranger and made her home comfortable to anyone of any age. I never had the opportunity to meet her however left feeling like I had. My fiance and I had to travel to a small town in Texas for the funeral, about 6.5 hours away from where we live, and when we got there the night before the funeral all of his family members were telling their memories in his great-grandma's living room. I loved hearing these stories about this wonderful woman. I think my favorite stories were told by her sister, a 94 year old white haired woman who still walks without assistance and has sharp hearing. She didn't even wear glasses. Amazing!

When I pass away I want my family and friends to respond much the same way that hers did. I want them to remember the good times and laugh together. There's an old saying that preachers like to use in their sermons about never seeing a hearse pulling a U-Haul trailer. You can't take your stuff with you when you die, so pick your priorities wisely. Rather than spending my time alone and collecting stuff I will cultivate those relationships and spend time with my family and friends. What an amazing legacy! I wonder who will be enjoying life with me?