Grief and understanding

My best friend's father passed away this past Saturday. His funeral is tomorrow. I've been weepy all afternoon.

I spent some time with the family at the hospital last week. I hate hospitals. He was being well cared for. I couldn't help but compare it to my own father's hospital stay before they sent him home to die. The people at Hoag in Newport Beach are stellar.

They had the viewing tonight, and my friends daughter posted that her grandfather didn't look the same. It immediately brought to mind when Mom and I went to view Dad's body at the funeral home. I wish I could take back that moment. I wish I hadn't done it. How can you try to comfort a 15 year old when you couldn't take it, and you were 36. When you try to remember the sound of his laugh and you realize it's getting harder to remember.

In trying to comfort a friend, all the old emotions have resurfaced, and they're just as raw as they were nearly 8 years ago. He is fortunate that he has a wonderful family and they are close by. His mother will have the support of her children and grandchildren and what a blessing they will be in time.

I came across this poem earlier today. It seemed rather appropriate.

When I come to the end of the road
And the sun has set for me
I want no rites in a gloom filled room
Why cry for a soul set free

Miss me a little - but not too long
And not with your head bowed low
Remember the love that we once shared
Miss me - but let me go

For this is a journey that we must all take
And each must go alone
It's all a part of the Master's plan
A step on the road to home

When you are lonely, and sick of heart
Go to the friends we know
And bury your sorrows in doing good deeds
Miss me - but let me go

- Anon

Rest in peace, Mr. Pyles. I'm sure you and Dad will have some tales to share about a couple of teenagers that somehow managed to make you proud.

And for my father, one of his favorites that he often sang.

"And I'd give the world if I could hear that song of his today"