Time at Home

I was really lucky to be able to go home for my grandfather's funeral. I think it meant a lot to my family to be there during all the different things related with the funeral. http://www.smithfamilyfuneralhome.com/View.aspx?id=14079

For those of you not from the US, our ceremonies are a little different than other places

Almost two weeks after his death, we had a visitation at a funeral home. The family is there all day with pictures and things and the body is there if it wasn't cremated. People who know the family or the person who passed away come by to share their condolences and share their memories. It is nice, but very tiring for the family. It is difficult to hear so many stories about your loved one and how sad it is and how much others will miss him. After a while I just didn't know what to say anymore. Although it is hard it is important for everyone to be able to share their difficulties with losing this person, and being able to cope with it. My grand father was a Free Mason and at the end of the visitation about 30 of the men from his lodge came and held a ceremony for him. It was moving and amazing to see so many people that day that loved my grandfather.

The following day was the funeral in the church I grew up going to. All the grandchildren took part in the service carrying things in remembrance of him, the ashes from cremation, the cross and other religious items. I carried the division flag that was on my grandfather's boat when he won the Port Huron the Mackinac sailboat race since I am quite involved in sailing and it was very important in his life as well.

The church was more full than on Christmas. It is amazing how many people cared for him. Afterwards there was a military salute since my grandfather was a veteran of World War 2 in the battle of the bulge. My cousin was in the marines and took part in the ceremony. Although I am quite the pacifist and am not the most supportive of my countries military engagements, it was beautiful and I appreciate the importance that this holds to other people. This is when I finally cried. I thought I was okay and could be strong, but it is okay not to be all the time.

There was then a luncheon at the yacht club catered by the people who have done most of the open houses and other events for our family. It was quite appropriate and allowed people to talk without feeling so solemn.

The next morning we buried his ashes and the children and grandchildren each got to but a shovel of dirt in the grave. It made it quite final.

It was a difficult time  and a lot of traveling for just three days, but I am glad that I was there with my family and am still able to finish my exchange in Brasil.