Yesterday, 3rd December, me and my family joined my two nephews as they said goodbye to their mum, my older sister, after she had passed on into the higher life. It was of course a sad occasion in many ways as old memories surfaced, thoughts of what had gone unsaid that we wished we had said and things that could have been done better perhaps by me over the years.
I found some solace in knowing that she was now free from the pain and difficulties she had endured, particularly in more recent times as she went on to meet those she loved who had gone on before her. She certainly didn’t take long to pay me a visit to reassure me she was OK in her new world!
My nephews had put together a series of photos that were gently faded in and out on large screens during the committal service. It was very moving, showing some beautiful, happy moments from what had not always been an easy life.
Such moments touch our Hearts deeply and have a cathartic effect. My mind filled with those promptings and questions many of us experience at such a time. “What is really important, what really matters in this life?” The answers quickly become obvious, as one’s mind searches for meaning. It is of course those moments of caring, loving and giving that matter most, how much goodness and kindness we can share, how much our actions bless the lives of others. That is what matters.
As I listened to the singing of my sister’s favourite hymn, my memories mingled with the theme of this festive season, a celebration not of a death but of a birth which heralded the prospect of peace, love and goodwill to all. “I could have been a better brother perhaps” I pondered.
Approaching Christmastide, whatever our beliefs, it is a time for renewal and for remembering what really counts in life. A birth is a new beginning just as what we call death is too. The gifts and presents we receive are to be valued and appreciated, but it is the givers themselves that are most important. They are the greatest gifts, to be valued and treasured beyond measure.
I invite you to join me if you wish, in a process of re-birth, seeking to value those around us and the gift of life itself more than ever: and through our goodness and love to honour those who are no longer here with us in this world, by feeling the joy to be found in the presence of those who are – family, friends, acquaintances and anyone we meet day by day - even the ones we may find difficult.
I wish you joy and peace and all good things in the coming days and weeks so that re-birth may open for you a world of great and wonderful possibilities and love. And if I haven’t told you before, I love you and value you more than you know. Thank you for being there.
Enjoy your Christmas Holiday Time and do have some fun too with those you love!