A Funeral & Wedding on the Same Day - letters from Dena

I sat at the front of a beautiful boat, surrounded by the most amazing scenery.

My oldest daughter and new son just exchanged vows, and -- it truly was one of the most beautiful and fun weddings I have ever attended. Everyone in attendance looked amazing and the ceremony was so uplifting.

As I looked out over the water -- during a pause in events -- I could not help but reflect on the day.

On the surface, my day was a day of stark contrasts of emotions.

But it really wasn’t.

The morning began with a funeral that I attended via livestream. A reflection of a life well lived, and beautiful person inside and out - who is now probably doing amazing things as a guiding light. And the service was beautiful. Peaceful. Acceptance. Sadness, but also a lot of Love. We could all hope to be so lucky.

I have hit an age, and a big enough social circle that -- where funerals were a never -- they are now part of the cycle of life.

I am at the age where funerals are more common than weddings.

It was an interesting realization.

And I could not help but be amazed and in awe of what we as humans can experience in a day.

The wonder and beauty in emotional contrasts.

Deep and profound displays of love.

No pettiness. No drama.

Just love and support.

For me, in these moments, I know I am alive.

I trust that there is something bigger than I am, and it is a reminder to be grateful for all the moments. All the highs, all the middles, and all the lows. I think we need to have movements of reflection to cultivate a sense of profound appreciation of this journey we all take.

So I sat on the front of a boat, watching the sky change from daylight to dusk -- and was caught in the absolute wonder of what it is to have the experience of being alive.

And witnessing and experiencing unconditional, selfless love.

God is good.

and for that — I am grateful.

Yours in the journey,

Dena