Wednesday, January 10, 2007

Day is Done

Cold, windy day. A solemn pall cast over the mourners, the sound of the bagpipes playing as the piper led the carrying of the casket to the graveside. Men in uniform stand at attention as it is lowered to the ground. A minister, known only to the immediate family, says a few words of comfort. A cousin at my side, Bebo behind me; strangers beyond the tent. Two soldiers step forward, one at each end of the casket. A slow salute before reverently folding the flag. The President of the United States … grateful nation … the words a blur as I watch him hand the flag to my Aunt. Then another salute before they walk away. The bagpipes start again, the haunting melody of Amazing Grace fills the air, gradually fading as the piper walks away. Silence, except for the wind, wraps us in our sorrow. Now the man who put out tiny flags for soldiers now gone waits quietly for one of his own.

Rest in peace Uncle Bill, rest in peace.


Thank you for all of your support and hugs. They were greatly appreciated.

The blog will resume again on Monday, January 15.

20 comments:

Jordan Summers said...

You choked me up on this one kiddo. (((Hugs)))

Sandy J said...

I am so sorry for you loss, Bailey. Hugs and prayers to you.

Christa said...

(((Bailey))) I am so sorry for your loss.

Brandy said...

Oh God, I am so sorry sweetie.
Bear Hugs to you and prayers too.

Anonymous said...

love you!

Toni Anderson said...

That sounds like a good funeral for an old soldier. Amazing Grace gets me every time :)

(((Eve)))

Bernita said...

Flowers of the Forest.

Joely Sue Burkhart said...

*sobs* ((((Bailey))))

Meretta said...

A beautiful tribute, Bailey. Just beautiful.

Anonymous said...

A beautifully written tribute, Bailey. I had tears in my eyes. Sending hugs and prayers.

Melissa Amateis said...

Wow, Bailey. You painted a beautiful scene. Take care of yourself.

Siobhan said...

With tears in my eyes I'm thinking of you. (((Hugs)))

catslady said...

A very touching tribute for your uncle, Bailey. {{{hugs}}}

Dru said...

That was a nice tribute to your uncle. {{{{Bailey}}}}}

Anonymous said...

It sounds like a very moving ceremony and brings tears to my eyes.

Mourn your loved ones. And don't feel you have to come back on Monday just because you said you would. Mourning cannot be hurried.

God bless your aunt and all who mourn and let you feel his loving care.

Hugs and prayers for peace in your heart and life.

I love bagpipes and Amazing Grace though the song probably has little meaning for you at the moment. But think of your Uncle Bill's life. He could so easily have died in the war. But God protected him to be with you for 60 more years. That *is* Amazing Grace. And his deeds will never be forgotten by the families of those he helped to save.

Anonymous said...

The bagpipes are an amazing tribute, so moving. Hugs to you.

Kelley Nyrae said...

I'm sorry for your loss. Hugs.

Diane said...

Thinking of you. Shirley's in the same situation.

Fannie said...

Life can be tough sometimes, but God gives us strenght to get through it and He will you also. What a beautiful tribute. My thoughts and prayers are coming to you and a lotta love. Hugs to you and to all the rest of you also.

Lexi said...

Wow! I'm so sorry for yet another loss. You'll be in my thoughts.