This morning we learned that Shawn’s grandfather passed away. He passed away in his sleep, apparently peacefully, which is a blessing. It is sad but also good to note that he had a good life, long and rich (he was in his nineties). He is survived by his wife and children. This is the third death in the family this year (four if you count one of our kitties). A sad year indeed. It’s made me think a great deal about loss and how people respond.
Another thing that has been on my mind has been the concept of a funereal. It raises all sorts of questions – is it appropriate to take small children? How much will the little one understand vs. simply be restive and anxious? When my mom passed away, we were there and I gave my daughter the option on whether she wanted to see her Nana and say goodbye. She chose to see her but I would have been fine with either choice she could have made. Either way, it is always a hard thing to go through for the adults and the children. Probably one of the reasons I don’t want a funereal – I want an old-fashioned wake. I want my friends and family to celebrate the memories. Joy vs. solemn – that’s my choice. What’s yours?
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