Saturday, January 03, 2009

Always Young in Heaven...

"Do people get young again in heaven?" my little niece innocently asked me on the ride to the cemetery.

"I hope so," I replied. "You will have to ask God."

Our procession took a beautiful route through the piney woods of Alabama.  We even saw some turkey cross the road.  The graveside service was short and they put my grandmother into the ground. Everybody dispersed and found their ways home. 

Earlier, at lunchtime, many of the little old ladies at my grandmother's Methodist church served the family lunch.  It was a casserole affair which thrilled me.  I even got to eat some classic green bean casserole that was delicious.

I am saddened by the loss of my grandmother, but surprisingly upbeat today. She lived a long, full life.  These last few years she was miserable.  I hope she finds peace where ever death lands you after life on earth.   

23 comments:

Jenn said...

Peace where ever death lands you. I really like that sentiment. It speaks to me.

An Irish Friend of Bill said...

it was really sweet that you could be there in your mother yesterday. She clearly needed somebody to talk to am was quite distressed by the sounds of things. very normal. I think it's fantastic that your recovery from alcoholism has put you in a position where you can be of real service to members of your family when they really need somebody. You have a big heart Andrew.
Anyway, I'm glad you're feeling better today. This too shall pass as they say. Just goes to show. The important thing is, to do the next right then when you're feeling a bit dodgy, as it always ends up better eventually. Good for you for hanging in there.

justLacey said...

My daughter asked me just yesterday if angels wear glasses. I told her I didn't know go ask her dad. When she came back, she assured me in heaven I wouldn't need them. I asked her if she was sure I was going to heaven?

Cheryl said...

I hope that people grow younger in Heaven. I'm glad to hear that today went well and that you're OK.

pattycakes said...

im so glad you were there for your family . sounds like you have come a long way and are really enjoying your family and life now . were you able to be a pallbearer ?
nice statement you made about wherever death lands you . i like it . have a great day andrew and love your family and maggie
hugs to you
:)

Ellie said...

Simple question just mean so much.

Mary said...

Andrew, I'm sincerely sorry for your loss. Your answer to your niece's question really spoke to me as did your last sentence. You are an amazing person. Never forget that.

I'm The Momma, That's Why! said...

So sorry that you have lost your grandmother - but glad that she is at peace. My grandmother was 87 and in a nursing home because of really poor health. It was a blessing when she passed. She was so miserable there.

More important business now! You are doing sooooo well! Keep that great record going. It's amazing what you can accomplish when you make your own decision to get it right!

Hang in there - we're behind ya 100%!

Grannie in Florida

Bridget said...

I want to echo Jenn's comment. I do believe, as you do, that death finds us peace "wherever we land." Also, your grandmother had a good long life. I can picture you in my mind right now, and it sounds as if your church (and YOU) gave her a respectful send-off. Hugs to you, Andrew.

Berryvox said...

I'm sorry to hear about your grandmother's death. Everybody above pretty much said it better than I could.

geelizzie said...

What is it about funeral food and how good it always tastes? Maybe it's a reaffirmation of life and living and eating, which we all have to do to stay alive, even though some of us (me) eat way too much. Funeral lunches are always kind of bittersweet-a chance to see people coming together to celebrate a life, but also the whole idea of someone being gone forever.

Anne said...

Love your new header on the blog....and the snow is fascinating.

Cin said...

I love the new pic that you put on the header of your blog! Its beautiful. I am very sorry to hear of the loss of your Grammy. May she rest in peace.

Marsha said...

Death lands you in one of two places. One is peaceful....

Leann said...

Love the new masthead Andrew.

I am sorry to hear of the loss of your Grandmother. It is a happy/sad time.

Take care my friend and you are in my prayers.

Leon Basin said...

I really love the blog!!!

justLacey said...

I love the snow on your blog.

Syd said...

Andrew, it sounds like a good service. And that you have a good attitude. When people live a full life, I miss them but also know that they had gotten a chance to live. I smiled about the casseroles. And the real green bean casserole--one of my favorites.

forsythia said...

Life so often is NOT a blessing for the very old. They are worn out and cranky and not happy to be here, especially if all their contemporaries are gone. As his 102-year-old aunt said to my husband, "Sometimes you can live too long."

Portia said...

I'm sorry for your loss Andrew, but glad your grandmother lived such a full life.

Happy New Year blessings:) I hope it is full of good things for you!

jrlmx2 said...

Andrew, my mom died on the night of 1/3. She, too, is resting in peace. She was 80, and I'm glad she's at peace. It was a long, tough road for her. I have to be a pall-bearer, too.

CRUSTYBEEF said...

I hope for her she has peace too.
I'm glad to see that you faired well today--I can imagine being around different people might have been difficult..you are a good man Andrew.

Sharon said...

jrlmx2, I'm so sorry for your loss. My Mom passed away on November 11th. She was 86 and really miserable the last years of her life, I think she was just worn out. I wish peace for you and your family at this difficult time, and will remember you in my prayers.
- Sharon -