Remembering Papa

It's been a very busy, exhausting week (both physically and emotionally). A time of honoring Papa's home-going with both sadness and joy. The majority of the CAN clan members were able to gather, share and reminisce. Grandma did pretty well. She was confused at times, but on the whole understood what was going on.

Tuesday's visitation/remembrance was a sweet time with family and friends. The funeral home made a very nice DVD, from photos we had provided of Papa, which played throughout the time we were there. These photos were a reminder that no matter what was going on, you could always count on Papa to flash that great smile when called upon! He could be in the grumpiest mood and yet could turn on a that smile for the camera!

Wednesday's military burial was beautiful; including a pleasant breeze under the shade of the pavilion. I'm so proud of my hubby! I wish all of you could have been there to hear him eulogize his dad.

He began with Colossians 3:5 -
"For though I am absent from you in body, I am present with you in spirit and delight to see how orderly you are and how firm your faith in Christ is."
A very fitting verse that epitomizes what Papa would hope for each of his family members; to be orderly and to be firm in their faith.

And then he read Psalm 23 and shared his thoughts (with special emphasis on verse 4):
"even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me"

It was incredibly moving to hear him share his experience with this particular subject. He related how during one of his "dying spells", as he lay at death's door, how evident it was that he was not alone. He had an incredible peace in knowing God was with him; there was no fear, no anxiety...only peace. Having this knowledge gave him much comfort in knowing Papa was able to experience this same peace as he was ushered home.

Laurie's husband Tony shared as well, challenging us to carry on what Papa had begun. Two of Papa's most used phrases were "carry on" and "take care of it". And we do, Papa, pledge to "carry on" the character and values you instilled. We will "take care of it"...our families, our friends, our jobs, our faith and all that God has called us to; and do our best to uphold the legacy you have entrusted to each of us.

And then Ken led us in singing Amazing Grace.

It is isn't it? God's grace is so amazing! Sometimes we get bogged down by the busy-ness of this world and it takes a life-changing event to remind us of just how amazing God's grace really is.

Thank you for sharing in our time of grief, even if you were not able to be with us physically. Your words of sympathy and encouragement in cards, e-mails, texts, etc., have been so thoughtful. I apologize for not returning messages and phone calls, hope to remedy that soon.