Sitting in a recent memorial service for a friend, I was deeply moved by the gift that was extended to those of us who gathered to pay our respects. In fact, R-E-S-P-E-C-T was given in full Aretha Franklin style. In fact, the niece of the deceased, beautifully belted out Aretha’s song in respect for her Auntie. There were plenty of us from our chairs providing back-up vocals and hand-clapping. It was glorious. Sharon would have been proud.
We never know how much time we still have here on Earth, do we. Decades? A few years? Days? Hours? Moments? That’s the Great Mystery, isn’t it?
Looking around the memorial room, I felt such a deep reverence for this human journey. My heart opened wider and tears started pouring out my eyes and down my face, leaving precious tear droplets on my lap.
As more mascara laden tears fell, I felt no need to stifle my grief and my joy. There were no apologies for this public display of emotions. I felt so raw and yet, so alive.
I honor, bow and give thanks to my friend and other dear ones who are no longer here. Driven by their hearts, they inspire me to be a better person.
With Love & Joy Always,
~Marcia
To join my online community and receive a free copy of Marcia’s “Conscious Aging 101: Affirmations” and my periodic Newsletter filled with stories, professional advice, and other resources.
