With a Family Wish, Love and Memories from Chitunga, Cynderballz and Me. May the Light and Life it Brings Offer Peace and Hope

The Syracuse trip home was short and purposeful, as my baby sister and her husband laid to rest a central figure in their lives. Pops. Not Poops (as John joked during the service). Anyone who knows Casey and Dave know the centrality of Pops in their life. He was their heart, their humor, their patterned day, and their best friend.

The same was true for their boys, Sean and Jacob.

Cynde ordered a rosebush online and we both doubted it would be what we ordered - it wasn't. On Friday before the service, we went to Hafner's in North Syracuse to get something that was more relevant: two solar lanterns and a butterfly bush. They have the best shed out back with full sunlight, and I imagine the plant would do remarkable out there. If planted, it will grow as tall as the shed and welcome summer monarchs, swallowtails, buckeyes, and other traveling creatures looking for nectar on their quest back home near the equator.

Light and Life. Life and Light.

It can never replace Pops, but it can be a location to look outside and remember him, love him, and feel his grace.

Losing someone is never easy and losing someone now is harder than usual.

As I watched Jacob and Sean during the service, I had memories of Casey, Cynde, and I as we came to see the passing of our grandparents. It was always tough, especially seeing our parents break down. Probably the most vivid memory from the weekend was when I looked back to see Chitunga holding Sean in his arms, letting him feel and let go of his sadness. Soon after, Cynde joined. As if instinctive, my father, being Butch as usual up front to be in the crowd, looked back and saw that it might be time to get Casey, which he did. Then, Casey, hugging her oldest, reminded me of how temporary it all is and meaningful. How fast, too, as it seemed like it was our relatives hugging us when we were younger.

All love to the universe and Great Whatever for helping every one to heal. We hope the butterfly bush and lights bring a smile to their home, just as Pops always did.

Rest In Peace, Pops. Look over your beautiful family and keep them safe.