Written by My father-in-law used to say that when you only get to see your loved ones at weddings and funerals, that is not a life well lived.
As we headed to northern Michigan for a Memorial service last week, I found out just how true that statement really was.
First off, I was astounded to remember just how beautiful the scenery was.
I was a bit jealous that my husband grew up in such a quaint small town on Lake Huron. He grew up just two short blocks from the lake. It’s stunning!
And life is a little bit slower up there and the people are just extra nice.
But my heart was so full of love at the memorial service as I came back into contact with people I haven’t seen in years.
If a memorial service can be fun, this was the funnest. I laughed with so many. I caught up with the lives and children and jobs of so many more.
At one point, while laughing with my niece I said, “I’m pretty sure you’re not supposed to laugh this much at a memorial service.
Immediately, another relative stepped forward and told me, “Yes you are, this is a celebration of life. Don’t ever apologize for that.”
As the service wound down and people started to leave, I heard so many folks vow to not let so much time go before connecting again.
It got me to thinking…why do we do that?
Why do we deny ourselves the very thing we love? Connection with loved ones.
Especially given the knowledge that tomorrow is not promised to anyone.
I don’t have the answers to these questions, but I do know this…
When it’s my turn to leave this earth, I want the kind of laughter filling the funeral parlor that I saw last week!