I am at an age where I have attended a sizable number of memorial services and you would think one would learn to cope better as you have more life experience. It hasn't worked that way for me. This most recent one has shaken me to the core.
Arnold was a very special man—an extraordinarily talented carver, but, more importantly, his life was a work of art. He left many behind who loved him. His adoring family, old friends, new friends—he embraced us all with the same enthusiasm he had for the outdoors, his family, and for his carving. He was a big man with a big booming voice, a big smile, and a big heart to go with it. My heart is heavy, but I manage a smile when I realize that Heaven will be a noisier place now that Big A is there.
Sorry for your loss, Anita - it's always difficult to lose someone important in your life.
ReplyDeleteThank you, John. It is amazing how quickly some people become important in one's life.
DeleteSo sorry to hear of the loss. I also lost a good friend this past Friday with a memorial service tonight and the funeral tomorrow. I have been thinking today about how I'm going to miss our conversations. I will only have memories. May your heavy heart find solace in whatever way is needed. Tears are fully accepted. Hugs!
ReplyDeleteI had noticed that you are going through the same experience, Monte. I am grateful for the memories. Time will ease the pain. It always does. And, yesterday's flood of tears was a healthy thing. Thanks for the hugs.
DeleteI think that it's always difficult, especially when that person has made an impact on your life. Seldom do we realize how much of an impact until that person is gone.
ReplyDeleteI like what you said about his arrival in heaven. :) Can you just see him saying: I'M HERE!!!
Take time, heal well, my friend.
Everyone that we let into our hearts changes our lives even if just a little. And, unfortunately, you are so right that we don't fully comprehend that impact until that person is taken away.
DeleteOh, yes, he will arrive singing in that big baritone voice. And he will create a racket.
Thank you, Paul, for your thoughts.
So sorry to read of your friends passing. He sounds to be one that time spent with him would be enjoyable and rewarding. Lately that seems to becoming a rarity. Think fondly of the time you did get to spend with him and the joy he brought to your life.
ReplyDeleteMy best, Steve
Thank you, Steve. I will always remember him laughing and joking. I am glad you reminded me of the joy.
DeleteAnita,
ReplyDeleteI've come to realize the truly hard part of aging is not seeing our own lives making their final curtain call but having to watch and experience the candles of so many of out dear friends, family and peers burn out leaving us behind in darkness.
Warm thoughts...
"...leaving us behind in darkness." What a powerful way to articulate the experience. That is clearly part of it. Thank you, Earl, for your thoughts.
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