You have to understand – I grew up the daughter of a preacher. I’ve been to more weddings and funerals than any 5 people have attended in their lifetime.
I’m used to funerals. I’m used to that uneasy feeling as you walk in and see people reconnecting and watch the sadness on the faces of those who have loved and lost. I’m used to the preacher’s rhetoric – that attempt to connect the audience with the hereafter and what they will do here on earth to earn their place in eternity. I’m used to the music (although that ALWAYS gets to me). I’m used to the tears.
But there is an unbelievable blessing you can receive from a funeral. All it takes is an openness of heart and soul.They had the memorial service for my friend yesterday. I heard one of the most incredible songs I have ever heard in my life. Julie Turner, played piano while her sister, Janice Carper sang. And it was a song that Janice had written called, “Be Strong, Sister”. It was so well done and such a powerful song for the funeral. They showed a slide show of pictures from Julie’s life.
And I was able to do some powerful reflection. Here I was looking at a woman that had played music as early as she could remember. A woman who grew up playing music with her family. A woman with a close bond to her sister. A woman with 3 boys whom she adored. I saw myself. I felt a playback of my life rolling in front of me. It was such a gift.
And Julie worked for the Woodlands Fire Department, who did a last call at the end of the service and retired her number. It was a powerful testament and honor to Julie. And another moment of reflection of the impact that our lives have on each other.
Julie’s wish was that a musician jam take place after her celebration of life service. And that we did. So many incredible musicians showed up to play and sing. We shared songs and stories. We remembered. We laughed. We cried.
There is a reason that there is more than one person on this spinning planet called Earth. We are meant for connection. We are meant to be together and come together and learn about ourselves from each other thru our experiences.
I had a very rich weekend. I am so grateful. I don’t have this Life figured out. Half the time I’m unsure of my place here and my reasons for being here. But I am grateful for these times of the heart and soul. And for the ability to share them with you.
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