We stood there waiting. All wrapped up. The thicker coats making their first outing after hibernation. Shoulders hunched as if this would somehow warm us up.
Staring in one direction in eager anticipation. A suspicious man, who we had shared a path with, suddenly became a vulnerable nearby spectator. Our misjudged suspicions easing into empathy.
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A silent hustle and bustle to get the best view. Delicately done as to not ruin the mood. Contrasted with excited children clinging on to paper cups as big as their own heads, amused by the cocoa powder art of their steaming hot chocolates.
Dog walkers looking on bemused at this sight. The crowd returning concerns at nighttime walkers. A solo runner speeding past, oblivious to his surroundings.
A teenage boy unable to look up with his mum - one might assume - simply saying all that needed to be said with a gentle tug and a welcomed holding of the hand.
The event organiser announcing that it would soon be time. And with that, rectangles lighting up the sky, hoping to capture the moment. The gathering growing larger as the moment grew nearer.
On a backdrop of still, calm waters and a perfectly starlit sky, the projection of faces appeared. Silence tangible. Grief noticeable. Love speaking the loudest. She’s too young. I wonder what their story was. Who are they here to see? Thoughts crossing my mind as I waited to see his face on the screen. And so, he appeared.
His face for simply a few seconds flashed up against the night sky. To others there, he would be a stranger but to me, he is my Dad. The seconds cannot capture the love shared between him and I and all who love him. The remembering can. The speaking of his name can. The touching of the heart and knowing he’s there can. A moment to reflect a lifetime. A photo to spark memories. A gathering to unite grievers.
Questions to ponder
What’s your experience of grief? Can you think of someone you’ve lost? How has losing them impacted you?
What rituals do you have for remembering loved ones? How would you like to remembered? What do you think your legacy will be?