My mom’s dear friend of over 60 years was laid to rest yesterday. He was an uncle as our families have been connected through generations. We all grew up together. I have a few friends who I have known since I was 15. We have watched our kids grow up even though we live in different states. Time does fly by fast and yesterday it was a time to reflect on life and how we should live it to the fullest.
There is nothing like the quietness of a funeral. It is often one of the most powerful parts of the experience. It’s not just the absence of sound, but it’s a kind of shared stillness where people are thinking, remembering, and feeling deep emotions together. When the voices of the threesome singing “Amazing Grace” tears flowed. Such a beautiful song as we watched the pictures of the life of a beloved dad, brother, uncle, and friend.
We all responded to a particular picture pointing at a photo and sharing memories. Someone said, “I remember that day,” and another voice answered with a quiet laugh.
Photos of a young smiling man on a beach. Dressed in his military uniform. In others, he is surrounded by family, arms thrown around shoulders at birthdays and holidays. Each picture seemed to tell a small story of the man who made an impact upon everyone in the room.
I thought about the four generations represented in that room. Grandparents only in photos now where it all began at least in our memories. The skills of tamale making, homemade tortillas, dress making. The grandpa who disciplined with grit but his love of family displayed in those pictures. Aunts and uncles down to their children. Us as cousins now with our own children. Our children are getting to that age to have their own kids.
“That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers” (Psalm 3:1).
Whatever season of life you are walking through, make each day meaningful. Show up for others, choose kindness, live with honesty, and stay rooted in your faith.
Lord, we come before You seeking Your peace.
In the midst of life’s challenges, calm our hearts and quiet our minds.
Bring healing where there is pain, comfort where there is sorrow, and hope where there is uncertainty.
Give us the strength to face each day with courage, the wisdom to trust Your path, and the faith to keep moving forward.
Surround us with Your love and remind us that we are never alone. Amen.
God Bless you all,
dreamsdontfade.com
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y-4NFvI5U9w&list=RDY-4NFvI5U9w&start_radio=1