Central Plateau, North Island

Central Plateau, North Island
View from a friend's farm

Tuesday 26 November 2013

Some words, courage, smiles, and tears

Janet's order of service page #2

Yesterday we drove to Carterton, to attend the funeral service for our dearest friend Janet. The chapel was packed, a wonderful tribute to a  much loved lady.

Her brother Colin began the eulogies, and  among  his words, was  “ If there was a silence that lasted longer than 3 seconds, Janet filled it with words”, so true. She sailed, played the piano, owned her own car at an early age,loved gardening, travel, an intrepid adventurer.

Family spoke,… her three grand-daughters stood at the front and one read the most beautiful poem,  written by them “ Grandma”,… her son-in-law  said Janet came to them wearing 3 hats, and with each one gave according to which it was. Then it was my turn. Hugh stood with me, and was such a support as I struggled amid tears to  speak . My final words were from Kahlil Gibran.

“ When you are sorrowful, look again in your heart and you shall see that in truth you are weeping for that which has been your delight”

 

While I was sitting in the chapel, I thought of all your comforting words, thoughts, prayers and hugs, and these were so in my heart and  mind the whole time. Thank you, again.

Quotation of the day, by Marcel  Proust

“Let us be grateful to the people who make us happy;

they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.”

Greetings from Jean

14 comments:

Here I Am Carrie said...

Oh Jean my heart goes out to you. Your friend suffers no more. Tears are shed, memories are close at heart. May God bless you and her family. Sending big hugs...

Jenny said...

It is always so hard to lose a precious friend. Our deepest condolences to you both.

Nancy J said...

Thanks Carrie, and Jenny, yesterday was so hard, but our 2 short years we knew Janet have been so good, and times together were special. Comforting words, so special to me. Thank you. Greetings from Jean

Julie Fukuda said...

They don't make it easier, but those are good words to note and remember.

TexWisGirl said...

what a wonderful tribute she had...

Karen said...

Oh Jean, I'm so sorry for your loss. May precious memories of Janet fill your heart and ease your pain.

Jim said...

Just look at that smile on Janet's face, one can feel goodness and joy flowing in every direction.
Jean, this was difficult and rewarding at the same time for you. What a wonderful tribute to a dear friend.
All the best to you and Hugh.

Carol Mattingly said...

My heart is with ou. Carol

Michaele said...

My heart aches for you. Bless you for those wonderful words.

fromsophiesview said...

So difficult for anyone to do, say good-bye to a special person in your heart and life ~~~ you and Hugh are a great support for each other and for all of those who knew Janet.
Loved your final quote by Marcel Proust ~~~ so very true!

Ron

Linda said...

Jean, my heart is reaching out to you. Sending you much love and warm hugs.

Nancy J said...

Thank you all so very much, today we had a visit from Janet's two brothers, one lives in NZ, the other in Adelaide, he is over from Australia for 2 weeks. It was so good to see them at our place, and show them where Janet spent many happy days or weeks. We talked and laughed, shared memories, and our happiness for her wonderful life. I told them of my wonderful blog friends, and how much the words of comfort have meant, it was so good to share this. Fond greetings to all, Jean.

Gayle said...

I'm truly sorry for your loss.

Nancy J said...

Thank you Gayle, we are slowly accepting our loss, and I find it so hard to think how her family are coping. Take care, up in your -10 freeze. Fond greetings to all, Jean.