Our beloved Trey |
When I was little, the minister of my church used to remind us that those we have loved live on in our memories even after they die, and because they have touched our lives, they live on in us too. At his time of my life, I no longer take memory for granted- each year I remember less and less as the ordinary moments of years past begin to fade.
And so it is that the sharing of memories and stories of our beloved dead becomes a sacred act. It is a practice that reminds us that our connection to those who came before is not broken, even in death. When we share memories and stories it helps us strengthen those connections and keep these memories alive. Although our loved ones’ absence from our physical lives is real, so is the presence that remains in our hearts and minds.
I once read the story about the family dog who always slept on a certain part of the carpet. Even after their beloved dog died, the family noticed how they kept the habit of detouring around that spot. That empty place became a reminder to the family of their companion who still filled a space in their hearts. Though the physical presence was gone, that space they held for her had its own kind of presence that was tangible for them, a space that inspired memory.
In many cultures this autumn time midway between the fall equinox and the winter solstice is the season to remember loved ones who have died. Whatever your culture or faith tradition, I invite you to find time to call to mind those beloved dead you are feeling close to this year, whose memories, love and wisdom you most want in your life right now…
Those whose wise counsel we sought out.
Those who knew how to bring a smile to our face, who helped us think about things in a fresh way.
Those whose lives inspired us.
You might do that in a private way, or you might share these memories and stories with family and friends. Often sharing brings back things we might have forgotten, and also creates support for the process, creating a compassionate space to remember and cherish things that might bring up tender emotions.
This time of year, or whenever the spirit moves, I invite you to remember your beloved dead. May their memories support, comfort, challenge and inspire us though death has taken their physical presence from us.
Our Beloved Sandy, Napping |