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Clapping at the funeral

Today was hard. I was invited to share at a funeral in town. I was not sure if I could even be there, or even say something without loosing my voice.  People of all ages were crying, struggling, quiet and starring in the distance. Esmelda, a 64 year old mother had a stroke yesterday and went to be with the Lord within a few hours.

As I finished sharing by the grave side of Esmelda, and they had lowered the body, a man came up to me and suggested we clap for her and say goodbye this way. I had never even thought about clapping at a funeral. I asked my friend Hugo if he thought this to be OK. He said, sure, why not.

People clapped for a long time. As they were clapping I thought of Esmeldas arrival and the angels welcoming her with beautiful music saying you have made, you are home. Another image that came to me was from the foot races I have been on. There is nothing like having family waiting for you a the end of your race and people cheering for you.

I also thought of Timothy and Julie, clapping loved ones into heaven. I thought of the day my little boy will clap  when we finally meet. It was a great moment. I challenged the 250 plus people to hope, and live in such a way and to make it to the finish line.

I am challenged daily to move forward and push until I too cross the finish line.
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  1. SuzyAugust 10, 2013 at 8:39 AM

    A beautiful image. And I like the idea of applause at a funeral ... so much emotion can go into a hand clap ...

    ReplyDelete

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