Once the visitation for my aunt
started, I tried to keep to the edges, darting into the middle of the
fray only as needed. Hundreds upon hundreds of people poured into the
church hall to pay their respects. I checked in with various family
members to see how they were holding up. I helped a second cousin set
up the food she'd brought us and then let everyone know where it was.
I hugged people in the receiving line and listened to their stories
about Aunt Sue.
Then I would find a chair and sit, giving my feet and myself a break. But still, I'd talk and listen and counsel. Bereavement counselor that I am, I poured into others for a few hours that evening. It comes naturally to me. Taking care of others is in my blood.
Our family has experienced more loss than anyone should. I worked for the same hospice that cared for my great-aunt and grandma and shepherded my family through those goodbyes. My cousins looked to me for support and I gave it.
I found a role in my family without even looking for it...
Please head over to A Deeper Family to read the rest.
