Death. This is a topic that most common talk seems to respectfully avoid. Yet, there are many neat things that happen surrounding the death of someone.
My cousin died last week. (I’ll have to post more about him later).
While that was sad, what happened next was neat to watch. People seemed to appear out of nowhere. I saw a longtime family friend for the first time in eight years. One extended relative returned home for the gathering (no formal service at my cousin’s request) and had time to spend and catch up with people he hadn’t seen in 20+ years. Relatives I hadn’t seen since the last year’s huge family event, made an appearance. Sometimes I forget that we all live in the same city. Some of my cousin’s friends who had long ago lost touch, reappeared to share their condolences and memories with the family.
It was wonderful. A chance to reconnect, with the intention of maintaining contact. Thanks to modern technology and social media, this is truly possible to do. Pictures were taken and shared and will be posted online for everyone near and far to enjoy.
And there was lots of laughter. Though death is sad, it was nice that the time spent with loved-ones wasn’t soaked up by tears, regrets and nose-blowing. People left with a light heart, happy to celebrate a life.
What encouragement to do my best with the life that I have.