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My uncle died last Sunday. He was my mother's only sibling. He loved Luke Kelly so it seems fitting to remember him with this song. The way the video is made truly reflects the process of an Irish funeral, the memories of the person shared which bring back even more memories. This sharing of memories fixes the person who has died in our hearts and in our minds. It allows us to hold onto all that is good and true and all that the person taught us. Today I want to again say thank you to him, for him, for all the wonderful days he gave me. He gave me wonderful songs and wonderful family times. He challenged me to stand up for myself and be myself. The bond forged between us in the hard times was never broken. He is part of the person I am today.
He is buried now in Annagh graveyard, at the foot of the mountains, by the sea, with all my small granny's people.
12 Comments
4/15/2012 12:24:53 am
Thanks Martine for sharing your heartfelt sorrow and gratitude. I so agree with everything we do at Irish Funerals, these are a wonderful celebration of life and love, and such fond memories of the person who has passed over. My we continue to carry on the good work, and inspire others who will remember us with equal thankfulness when our time comes. With love and Irish blessings to you and your family, Christina xxxxx 4/16/2012 11:44:35 pm
What a lovely thought Christina 'that we might be remembered with equal thankfulness' x Martine - I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your uncle. May your memories give you comfort over the coming days, weeks and years. It may seem very strange to say this, but after living in America for 23 years one thing I really miss about Ireland, is funerals. In mourning our loss we instinctively celebrate life. Customary silent nods, acknowledge the power of a life well lived. Their is a rhythm and a pathos to Irish funerals found nowhere else in the world. With love and blessings! Mairead 4/16/2012 11:53:33 pm
Mairead there is truly a certain rhythm to an Irish funeral and it does carry us and hold us up as we walk that path from death to burial. I have felt a great comfort in it these last few days. I have been deeply aware of all the generations before me walking this lane down to the graveyard, saying these same prayers and maybe even singing the same songs. We felt outside of time and deeply connected to one another. x 4/18/2012 03:18:43 pm
Martine, I am saddened to read about the loss of your Uncle. I think he must have been a very fine man and a strong influence, in helping you define yourself. 4/18/2012 10:25:53 pm
So true Alicia, all that is good and beautiful is never lost. x 12/23/2012 03:36:54 am
Thank you so much Paddy. I am so glad to have your company along the way. Mx Leave a Reply. |
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