A friend from the gym was telling me how an open coffin at a funeral had disturbed her so she couldn't sleep the following night. I was a little surprised at her response. I have had a few experiences and feel that it makes the passing of somebody more real, especially for those who haven't seen the person during their illness. The swift removal of the deceased and then never seeing them seems to me like magic. I suggested that seeing the body gives you a chance to say final good byes or just place the event into something comprehensible. When Peter died I made sure the boys saw him before he was taken by the undertakers and then we had a viewing later so they could leave personal messages with him and also Peter's brothers had a chance to say their goodbyes. It felt like the right thing to do and a way to let go somehow. The memory is then of someone at peace rather than in anguish. It seemed to give her a different perspective and ease her unsettled feelings.
On the joyful side my friend Sherryn is walking the Via de la Plata and her posts on Facebook are bringing back such fond memories. I am so hungry for each new post. She seems to be having a fine time and has found some amenable walking companions. It has given me itchy feet again.
Jonathan and Clare have decided to have a black and white wedding. That is, all guests are to wear either black or white or a combination of both. It is going to be a very elegant affair it seems. I have been looking on line for dresses to get an idea of what I could wear. It is going to be fun shopping and agonising too I suspect.
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