Today is just not another Monday - today would be my mothers 69th birthday. Most of you know that my mother passed away three years ago on September 1, 2004 from cancer.
Just to write that she would be turning 69 wierd me out a bit. Has it really been more than three years since she's been gone? I guess it has... that was just some of the things I was thinking about today when I was at the cemetary laying next to her grave. I find it fascinating that people die and are buried everyday. I know it's something we hear about daily on the news but we rarely hear about the funeral that follows or visiting the departed on Mothers Day, Fathers Day, Christmas, Birthay, Chanukah or any other special holidays relating to the people who have passed.
It is a privelege to walk through a cemetary and see all the different cultures and customs of different families and ethnicities. For instance, did you know that a lot of Asian cultures place fruit *at Rose Hills we see a lot of Oranges* by the grave. I've heard conflicting reasons why this is done. Anyone know the official reason? I also heard that a lot of religious Asians like to be buried on the highest land in the cemetary, the rational is to be closer to God... kind of beautiful actually! I also notice that many Latinos make it a day of visiting their dead. Food, flowers, elaborate picnics and family all decorate the grave, truly making the day a celebration instead of an ongoing grievance... we could all learn something from this!
All-in-all today was a beautiful day to spend with my father remembering my mom, sharing tidbits about our life with each other and eating lunch. I miss not seeing my dad as often I used to - come to think of it I miss seeing my dad with my mother on his arm.
Tonight is still up in the air, I may go to the gym or I may go ice skating - I have a few hours to decide! Last night was a blast! Hanging out with my coworkers and drinking until 2 a.m. at trashy str8 bars in Burbank/Glendale areas... a lot of fun!!!
Okay, happy birthday mom... I love you!!!
Monday, January 14, 2008
A SPECIAL MONday
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1 comment:
Aye, I still have my mother thank God, but my dad is gone. :(
These are sad anniversaries, and yet one must always remember our loved ones in positive ways, like you have in your post.
Alas, we'll all get to meet in the next dimension anyway, right?
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