I was really missing my Mom today. She died 10 years ago but my heart still aches for her, especially now that I am living in my hometown. She was a school teacher at my elementary school, which is where my kindergartener is attending. Daily I am reminded of her loss as I pull into the school grounds.
On the day she died in the hospital, Father Ron (a dear friend of hers) was in the room. He coached her on dying without fear, while comforting us after she was gone. Last week, Fr Ron died. He was the first person my daughter really knew who died and today was his his funeral.
I skipped the wake and visitation yesterday. I am not yet prepared to experience that with my 6 and 3 year old. Today we experienced the special funeral mass, explained that he was in the coffin, and the process of his body going into the ground. Then the rest of the night was spent talking about heaven. As a parent, this was a challenging night. Honestly, it would have been easier to just skip the funeral. My husband was out of town, it was cold and rainy, it was exhausting, and I would have avoided the tough topic of death.
Despite all that, I am glad we went. Out of this came some beautiful discussions on death, even though I don’t have all the answers. It was important for me that they begin understanding this as part of the life cycle. And even though Fr Ron was sweet to my daughter, I am glad their first funeral was not a major player in their life. This was a warm up to future losses and grievances.
Thank you, Fr Ron, for once again leading us through the process of death. Give my Mom a big hug from me. You will be missed!
Peace,
Jen