Just because it’s Inauguration Day doesn’t mean the time of mourning isn’t over for the recent passing of President Jimmy Carter. Flags are supposed to be flying at half-mast but some places governors due to political concerns have ordered them to full-mast because of Monday’s events in Washington, DC. President Carter is a great man who deserves to be remembered and properly honored. For all he did in his life, he deserves better.
Lots of people are going through losses of family, pets, and other stuff. All I can say is that God will be with you, us, and everyone through all of it. If you aren’t Godly inclined then may you have comfort and solace in the arms of family and/or friends. Don’t worry about being tough, feel the feelings and allow yourself to be human. Peace be with you all.
As I have mourned the death of my dad it’s made me further aware of how mental health is important and that loss has an impact on it. Hiding what hurts can seriously make life very difficult and can make you physically sick. Expressing and releasing is healthy and can help others who are going through the same stuff you are.
If one is suffering then seeking help can make life easier to manage. Don’t struggle on your own. Be kind to your heart and mind.
Mourning with a friend is kindness.
In ones mourning we should always remember those who are mourning too for one reason or another. The suffering of people doesn’t take a break. Loss is timeless and universal.
I am in Thomaston, Georgia for the funeral of my aunt Dorothy or “Dot” as she was known by family and friends. We got here around 6:15 after enduring the awful Atlanta, Georgia traffic which is notoriously horrible.
When we got to my aunt’s house tonight we were greeted by family who were sure to feed us in the tradition of many families around the world when there is a death in the family. Now in the south it’s about fried chicken, the sides and deserts. Food is synonymous with coming together as family to remember and to reconnect. In the south when you are sick or a family member passes traditionally ones community comes to the side of those who survive. Gifts of food among other things are offered to ease the loss. Blessed are those who mourn as it says in scripture.
You know it shouldn’t take death to bring people back together in times like this. However for many family comes with complications that unfortunately cannot be overcome even in the passing of a loved one.
Dot’s funeral is on a Saturday in January at her church where she was a member for a very long time. This is the same church where her mother, my great-grandmother’s funeral was held fourteen years ago.
Her devotion to God was/is shown by her hospitality and love for family and friends. She lived a great life, a long life, a life that will be remembered.
A funeral is more than mourning the dead it can be a family reunion too. Sometimes that family is biological or chosen from your tribe of friends. It’s amazing how you can reconnect and renew the ties of family that bind you.
I know that Dot is with her mother, father, brother and sister in the company of saints above. For me I am grateful of these people’s impact on my life and how I know that life does go on in the hearts and minds who continue a legacy.
A quote I like is “Live your life so the preacher won’t have to lie at your funeral” so for Dot she has nothing to worry about.
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