08 June 2011

Loss

Pema Chodron:
"When you open yourself to the continually changing, impermanent, dying nature of your own being and of reality, you increase your capacity to love and care about other people and your capacity to not be afraid."

This trip to Ireland has turned into something very different than how it was planned. I'm staying with my husband's cousins who have become good friends over the 13 years since we met them. There has been an unexpected death in the family throwing every day life up in the air, the way death does. Thoughts and feelings are swirling, tears and stories are shared. I'm learning more family history. A home wake, the custom here in Count Clare, will be tomorrow and I'll attend. I'm letting it all in, being present, helping where possible. It's all I can do for now.

13 comments:

  1. I have heard that an Irish wake is like no other. I do hope if it's appropriate that you will share the experience on here. Blessings to all affected.

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  2. And you will be linked with the family even more.

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  3. Im sure you will bring strength and empathy to the proceedings.

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  4. So sorry for this loss. I know you will be a comfort to the family.

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  5. Oh, Mary, I am so sorry. [Hugs]

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  6. I'm sorry tragedy struck during your visit. I'm sure you will become closer than ever with your cousins and friends for having shared this. And if everything I've read about a true Irish wake is true, you will learn something about death, and living. I hope you will share those lessons with us, if you feel it appropriate.

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  7. I'm so sorry. You and the family are in my thoughts.

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  8. I'm sorry to hear of your loss at a time when you were looking forward to a fun visit. I am struck by you saying you are staying 'present' and helping where you can. I know you are a real support and comfort for the cousins. You will be connected in an entirely different way now. You are in my thoughts.

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  9. My condolences. And a prayer.

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  10. Different plans. May they be interesting and memorable.

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  11. Sending light to you all. Thank goodness you were there to be a comfort....

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  12. I'm once again reminded of why I like this world of blogging and my blogger friends. Your responses were so sweet. I'm grateful.

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