I had never heard of this song until my grandma's funeral this past summer (July 2012). It was a favorite of hers, which we later learned she had sung at many funerals in her time. I had the opportunity to sing it with many of my cousins at my grandma's funeral. I, of course, held my emotions well, until we were in the moment and singing the song. And then, I really just stood there and cried while listening to my cousins sing (they sounded great!). I did pull it together just enough to finish the last verse with them.
And now I love this song because it reminds me of my sweet Grandma Betsy. And I love it for the memories its given me of working with so many of my cousins to be ready to sing the song...we haven't all been together since Christmas when we were little kids. We even sat in Grandpa's backyard to be together and have dinner the day after the funeral, another tradition that has not happened in years, but felt so good to be able to do.
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| Grandma Long, she really looked good. Love her so much! |
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| Grandpa Long, he stood next to her throughout the viewing, as if protecting her, or showing her off, or just wanting to be near her. He is a quiet man, but he has his convictions. Someday I'll write about the lesson he taught me about faith during the week preparing for the funeral |
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I have great memories of my extended family. I love every single one of them! I feel so privileged to be a part of the legacy created by my grandparents. I have always wanted to live a life that would make Grandma proud, but I feel it even more so now. And I feel like she's watching me now so I'd better step it up! =o)
PS Some of the boy cousins sang too, I didn't forget about you guys, and I am absolutely including you when I say I have a great extended family.
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