To say today was exceptionally
challenging would be an understatement. Each of us said goodbye to a
portion of our heart...some more than others.
Raymond, Ray, Unk, Unk the Great. Those were
just a few of the names Ben's uncle acquired during his 77 years here on
earth...and I can't believe it's been over 2 weeks since his passing.
Every time I pull onto the family property and behind the big house, I
expect to see him outside doing some type of yard work. It was an
unexpected passing and it's jolted each and every one of us.
I was blown away when Unk's wife, Arlene, asked me to do a reading at
his funeral. What an honor to be able to speak at such an amazing man's
end of life service. Of everything he has accomplished, I felt out of
place being the person chosen to pass along the following message:
{Go placidly amid
the noise & haste & remember, what peace there may be in silence.
As far as possible without surrender be on good terms with all persons.
Speak your truth quietly & clearly; and listen to others, even the
dull & ignorant; they too have their story. Avoid loud and aggressive
persons, they are vexations to the spirit. If you compare yourself with
others, you may become vain & bitter; for always there will be greater
& lesser persons than yourself. Enjoy your achievements as well as
your plans. Keep interested in your own career, however humble; it is a
real possession in the changing fortunes of time. Exercise caution in your
business affairs; for the world is full of trickery. But let this not
blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals; and
everywhere life is full of heroism. Be yourself. Especially, do not feign
affection. Neither cynical about love; for in the face of all aridity
& disenchantment it is perennial as the grass. Take kindly the
counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth.
Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not
distress yourself with imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue &
loneliness. Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself.
You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees & the
stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to
you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should. Therefore be at
peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be, and whatever your labors
& aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery & broken dreams, it is still a beautiful
world. Be cheerful Strive to be happy.}
Doting husband & magnificent uncle; our very own animal whisperer.
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| Unk & Hannah; touring the property |
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| Unk & Mai-Tai |
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| Arlene & Unk |
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Ray, Marna & Herb, Tabitha
Ben's Uncle, Mom, Dad & sister |
