It was the kind of service where there are tears, but the joy is far greater. Imagine walking past two young boys handing out programs into a good-sized room with a dozen or so round tables. You find your seat and then watch as the immediate family walks across the room to a table set to the side of the room so they may view the speaker and the crowd. Acoustic guitar welcomes three groups of young people with each carrying a picture that is placed in front of a looping slideshow. To the right of the slideshow is a large family portrait and to the left is a framed pink shirt with name badge. The young people take their seats at the two front & central tables and you recognize these are the cherished grandchildren. A dread-locked man gets up, tunes his guitar and does his best to start the show for his Pepa by welcoming everyone and then plays his original tune called, Rain followed by Will the Circle Be Unbroken where everyone is invited to join. Next two beautiful women share that old favorite, Ill Fly Away. Tears are already flowing as a man, listed as a nephew, begins reading the obituary where it is finally noticed that a very important person was omitted in print, but recognized in person. He then delivers a poignant and perfect eulogy to the person being honored. Filled with anecdotes and memories, quotes, and comforting words. When hes finished the crowd is reminded a lunch awaits them but first, the family welcomes any stories or words the crowd would like to share. Like a rabbit, the oldest grandson springs forward. Shocking because he is known as quiet, shy and he delivers two stories that exemplify his feelings and the man he loves as his Pepa. Various family members share and then the only son steps forward and eloquently and perfectly explains with his emotions alone how much his father was loved and adored. The wife finally takes her turn and shares an example of why her husband almost didnt die from the disease but due to his antic of signing her up for ChristianMingle almost met his Maker early. Then, in walks seven tiny angels with colored pictures of Jesus and angles and the signal it was time to close. A closing prayer, then a delicious lunch where small groups hugged it out, cried it out, laughed it out, and agreed, He was the best. A dozen or so of the honorees high school classmates had come to pay their respects. His dearest friend and spoken of how loved and respected his friend had been. Extended family, long lost friends, cousins, aging elders, and little angels had gathered to say, See you later! for this was not goodbye. He did not die. He lives in Heaven with Our Lord where he awaits our turn at being welcomed home. He made this day beautiful by living his life the best he could. Thank You Daddy and thank You Father for my Daddy.
Posted on: Wed, 13 Nov 2013 19:37:46 +0000