I've just written the first draft on one of the most important pieces I will ever write: My dad's eulogy. I have written 1809 words...That's only a few hundred words over my average word-count here on a hive post...1809 words to summarise a life of eighty four years. It doesn't seem right.
My sister is reading it at the moment, as I type this. She'll have some feedback of course. I can hear her crying at the moment, and am keeping my distance to give her some space to do whatever it is she wants to do. Instead I thought I would share with you my idea for the small item of remembrance my family members will place upon my dad's casket prior to it being lowered.
As my dad was a very accomplished artist, (he made his living and provided for the family through his artistic ability), I felt an item referencing the importance of art in his life would be suitable, rather than a simple flower or sprig of rosemary; These items will be available for mourners to use, but for the family...Something more personal was required.
The image here shows you my idea.
This is one I made myself as a test-version; The end result will look better I think. It is a bundle of paint brushes and a flower thing all tied together with string. The idea is that each of us will place one of these and I've made one up for the five family members in Finland, 
On speaking with the funeral director it seems people use all sorts of things for this purpose...She listed a few like Lego, car parts, shoes, books and so many other things which I think is cool. I think it's nice to leave a token that the person may relate to, not that they probably care themselves any more, but it's nice for those of us left behind.
Just a note here...If you're thinking Lego would be a good thing for me when I'm gone, because I love Lego, you're right. The thing is though, don't hold back until I'm dead. Send it now so I can enjoy it now. I'll send you my address if you're keen.
This week has been a little difficult for us here in Adelaide. We're trying to get the funeral organised and work at the same time. For Faith and I it's been terrible as we only just lost Merlin, our cat of 22 years also...We are still heart broken of course. But we're getting by. It has been nice to receive some messages of hope and condolence from hive, many of which I have read to Faith also. She says thank you.
I'm happy that the eulogy I wrote touches on the most important aspects of my father's life, that it will inspire thought and memories in those present at the funeral and that my dad would be pleased. We're bringing it all together slowly and soon my younger brother will be here from Queensland and we will all send my dad on his way. The funeral is on Monday 13th and we will be ready by then.
Thanks to all who have sent messages and have offered support. It means a great deal that the community has rallied around us and offered their thoughts and sentiments.
Design and create your ideal life, don't live it by default - Tomorrow isn't promised.
Be well
Discord: galenkp#9209