Saturday is May 14. It would be Michael's 46th birthday. I am planning on having Michael's closest friends and some family over to have a small lunch and celebrate Michael's life by scattering some of his ashes in the back yard. He spent hours in the back yard, manicuring the grass and plants, pulling weeds, and getting his hands dirty. He often said gardening was the best way for him to clear his mind of life's stresses and relax. His labor was evident; our back yard is a site to see.
Some friends have chosen not to come for an assortment of reasons, which I understand. Some have also said that they've already said good bye to Michael and don't feel they need to do it again and again. Saturday isn't time to say goodbye. We have already done it. Saturday is a time to remember him and everything he did and how he impacted my life and the lives of so many others.Taking this step and celebrating his life and scattering his ashes is part of my grief process.
I think of him most of the time and still miss him. However Saturday isn't a time to dwell on sadness. It's not a time to cry and wallow. It's a time to tell stories, laugh, and remember the 45 full years of his life. It's a time for friends and family to come together and be close and feel his spirit as we release his ashes into one of the most sacred places in his life. The back yard meant so much to him -- he spent hours back there cultivating life and now a part of him will always be there helping those plants grow for years to come.
And it WAS a celebration! I bet he loved it! :-) I know that I loved being there and as part of a celebration of his life and a part of your grieving process as well. It was a gorgeous day with wonderful friends and family! Thank you! I love you so much!
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