FUNerals

I attended a funeral today. The woman lived to be 102. Think of all you could do in that time. Accomplishments for God. Not selfish actions that ultimately have no reward, but selfless, compassionate actions that you will be remembered for...actions to leave a legacy.

It wasn't a very large turnout, but you could tell she was loved and a generally good person. Everyone reflected on her humor and jocular disposition...what admirable characteristics to be remembered for.

I also learned that there is a 3 month period in North Dakota that no one is buried during. The ground is frozen solid. So if you die during the winter, they refrigerate you and bury you in late spring. I would say that gives you sufficient time to mourn before the graveside.

There is always an unusual dynamic at funerals. It's a sadness overcome by joy. Sad to see them leave, glad to know they're in heaven. Sad that a death has finally caused all the family to reunite, but glad to see old faces...and even some new ones. And this is all happening while gathering around a dead friend or relative who is resting peacefully in an open casket, which obviously doesn't bother anyone enough to still not want to eat lunch. A death lunch. All the merry-making while some are still in mourning.

Happy and sad.