I grew up going to funerals, since my mom never believed in babysitters. If she went to a funeral (or anywhere), so did I.
I think it worked out all right, although I had a rather pessimistic view of death through most of my teen years, and wrote pathetic poems telling how I didn't want people looking at my dead body if they didn't like to look at me in life.
You know how teenagers are. Nowadays they have alternative rock to voice their sentiments.
I'm sixty-three years old. Suddenly my peers are getting sick and dying: our old buddy Boyde has throat cancer. Another old pal, Don, has heart issues that surgery won't fix.
Cliff's cousin Ken is having a get-together next week, because he has cancer and doesn't expect to live long. And I guess he wants to actually be there when we all celebrate his life.
Yesterday I received a call from a cousin saying that another cousin, Cecil Wayne, died from a massive heart attack. He's at least four years younger than I am. Dang, it seems like yesterday that my daddy was so proud of Cecil Wayne because he was doing well in Golden Gloves.
Looking at the local paper , I told my grandson today, "There's a lady in the obits who's 60 years old, and she died of a heart attack; I don't want to see that!"
But I acknowledge that it's my generation's turn. It's the circle of life. I only hope I have enough notice that I, like Kenneth, can throw a party and attend my own wake.
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Now playing: Iris DeMent - After You're Gone
via FoxyTunes
Yes, it is a grim realization to see your generation leaving you.
ReplyDeleteMom was only 50 (she left in 62) and Daddy was only 60 (he left in 66). Then my beloved sister left me when she was 72.
Not being 'back home' I don't really know about school friends, etc., but it shook me to the core when I learned my cousin who is only 6 months older than I, is back in the hospital after having a throat blockage. He lost his larynx 11 years ago, so this scares me a lot.
I rest in the Lord knowing that He is in charge of my life.
XXOO
I read the obits every day, first thing. I always look at the ages of the people to see if any of them are younger or the same age as I am. It's kind of a morbid habit wouldn't you think but I do it.
ReplyDeleteGlad you got another Gold Wing! You enjoyed it so much and had some really good photograpy from your rides! Have fun!!
Donna,
ReplyDeleteIn an odd way, I find it beautiful that Kenneth gets to celebrate his life with his friends and family. That's just really beautiful to me.
And my grandpa used to say, "If I wake up and read the obituaries and my name's not in it, I know I'm doing okay and I go about my business." Smartie, he was.
I say, as long as we wake up with our name written in the Lamb's book of Life, we're doing okay and then some. ;)
Blessings,
~Toni~