Monday, January 11, 2010

White but with a little bit of Black

The snow and ice have resided with us for nearly a month now. Both people and the natural world are fighting against the grip of the cold snap. The world seems forever white and has been altered further by a death which added some black to the bright winter scenery. My father passed away on Dec 28 2009. It has brought about empty spaces, an empty chair, rooms feel bigger and memories bring little bee stings. He left behind few belongings - something for which I am very proud of him for. Just some clothes, birthday cards and odds and ends. He came from a generation where the word consumerism didn't exist. Life has changed - not for bad nor good, its just different. With one piece missing and the rest in the air, there is an uneasy unsettled feeling in amongst the calm and acceptance, when the pieces land it will reveal a new order to things. I am in awe at the support of friends and family. It may be an obvious statement but if you have basic good health, family and friends - you've made it big time.

9 comments:

  1. My sincerest condolences for the passing of your beloved father. May God strengthen you and bless you during this period of grief.

    Indeed, with good health, family, and friends you can make it big.

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  3. So sorry to hear of your father's passing. Time will ease this sorrow.

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  4. Thanks to you both Duta and T. I hope 2010 will be a good year for you both.

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  5. Blessings to you and your family at this time. You are right: a loving network of support is priceless at times like these.

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  6. I am so sorry for your loss.There seems to be something so 'emptying ' when you lose a parent,the back bone of your life,the one person who was always there for you through thick and thin,who loved you no matter what.
    That leaves a big void in your life to fill.Fill it with fond memories and do grieve,we need to grieve as it helps us come to terms with our loss.
    I wish you and your family well at this sad time.

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  7. Vera & Matron - Thank you for the kind words and offerings of sympathy. Yes, support and fond memories are a great help to all. Blessings upon you for 2010.

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  8. It is a challenge to work out how to weave death into life, isn't it? How to let go and yet retain. How to keep him with you, and consult with him, hear his voice and envisage his walk, this movement and that. This is what, to me, the grieving process is all about. Not letting go so much, as learning how to retain and keep close something which is no longer physically accessible.

    Take care, Christopher.

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  9. Very well put Julie. We have been discussing that letting go yet retaining idea, I know there is a way to feel like you haven't lost someone and keep their spirit close. Thanks for the thoughtful insight.

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