Funerals

I can't explain why it happens like this, but in the past three weeks or so I have the death of someone I know in my life happen.   I hear "things come in 3's" well, unforunately I can list 4 that have left earth.  And, because each life is of such important worth, let me briefly tell you who each one was...

First,

Beverly - a lovely, southern woman and devoted wife, mother, grandmother to her family and to our church.  Think sweet?  That was Beverly.

Ann Marie - my best girlfriend's younger sister, taken at age 50, with a new husband and a beautiful daughter.  A long timer county 911 operator who saved countless lives on her job.

Carl - a fellow band mate with the PI Community Band, and sometimes fill-in director.   He spent his whole career as a music teacher and band director.

Gary -  he hits home the hardest.  An amazing husband, father, and doting grandfather. Full of life til the moment he died on 9/11 (his wife's birthday.)  A funny man and a deeply caring and devoted man to his faith and to all those around him.  He was our one daughter's Confirmation sponsor.  I was his daughter's.  We shared many meals together - as neighbors, golfing friends, church buddies, and more.  Many discussions.  Deep discussions - about life after,  about whats happens to people when they don't believe.  He worried about others' souls. 

I know Gary, Beverly, Ann Marie, and Carl are all at peace.  They died different ways.  Most rather suddenly, so for their sake it was a blessing. 

But, certainly not for us still walking around who knew them and will notice the huge hole they left behind. 

Their deaths in a row certainly highlight to me how each of us has such a limited time on earth to make a difference, to love, to enjoy each day, to work for the betterment of this place we all call home. 

I have always been a believer in life after death.  I believe Jesus conquered death and rose again... to show us that there is heaven.  There is more.  There is a loving, caring God.   And, because I do believe I have always wondered how connected we stay with those who are "on the other side."   I had my mother come to me in a dream a week after she died.  I have heard similar stories from others.  Really, I don't know if it's because we WANT it, or we NEED assurance, or if they really do have the ability to reach us in dreams or at other waking moments.  I like to think it's possible.  I want to stay connected with them.  Physical death is not the end.

So, this morning I prepare to head to another funeral.   I realize I'm aging...so this will happen more and more...   and after the shock of word of the passing, I have realized how important the celebration of the life is.  I'm heading to NJ on Thursday for a group hug, for a lot of tears and lots of stories.  I will show my support to the family I love so much, and I will see others from the community that I have not seen in 9 years!   I know it's going to be a time Gary will really like!  In some way,  I hope he will be there!!