It's really quite unfortunate that you have to attend one's funeral to truly gain insight into a person's life on earth. Mostly for those who would be termed peripheral friends - you have contact with them infrequently over several years, always respecting them and knowing that they have impacted many others but when it comes right down to it your paths never cross for long enough for you to truly get to know one another.
Such was the case for a gentleman who's funeral I attended today. A pillar to his children, grandchildren and church community. Someone with wit, patience, drive and who loved camping trips. A long life, 78, and a short battle with cancer, but someone I volunteered with for about 18 months and never had the chance to have a meaningful conversation with. I only knew him 'well' through hearing how his actions impacted others. A beautiful funeral, if there is one, pack to the brim with friends and such - he helped to build the very church his service was in with his bare hands. Leaves a wife of 53 years whom seemed to be his best friend. Flute, piano, trumpet, choir and his son (prerecorded) singing. Very moving. Makes things that we do each day seem trivial and somehow more important, all at the same time.
This one's for you, D. M.
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