In Loving Memory of Jean

quote: victor hugo

Be like the bird
who halting in her flight
on limb too slight
feels it give way beneath her
and yet sings
knowing she hath wings
– Victor Hugo

The quote first came in to my life when I was five or six. It was in a big glossy book, with pretty pictures of statues. I think initially I loved the simple rhyme, the idea of this little bird trying to land, and then singing. I imagined a tiny brown finch, in the dead of winter, trying to land on a little branch that would not hold her. Dusty flecks of snow and ice sparkle in the cold sun as she flutters up, spreading her little wings, flapping and flying, and finding her way.

Today my brother in law is giving the eulogy for his mother, Jean. She is gone, unexpectedly, gone. There is a family trying to cling to what they know, to those memories of a beautiful, funny, woman who was so full of life. Who had a house full of rescued animals, a woman who sent amusing and thoughtful gifts to her grandchildren. Who loved unapologetically.

It is my prayer that in the next life she is dancing, she is smiling on her family. That she is restored and renewed, and made whole again. That she is embraced by the Eternal, that she knows she is loved beyond measure. And that she sings, knowing she hath wings.

Sharing Jean’s memory at:
Tell Me a StoryHear it on Sunday, Use it on Monday
 Playdates at the Wellspring

Comments

5 responses to “In Loving Memory of Jean”

  1. A Joyful Noise Avatar

    That poem is so lovely and sad too. But the bird will not give up, for she will keep trying to find a place to rest. Sorry for your loss especially when it is sudden or untimely. Thank you for sharing your story at “Tell Me a Story.”

  2. Crystal Mary Avatar

    If Jean knew Jesus then she is young and happy again, she will be dancing on streets of Gold, and eating from the tree of (eternal) Life..I have read so many out of the body experiences, and anyone who gets to Heaven, never wish to return,

  3. caryjo Avatar

    Bless you for sharing so clearly and, through your post, encouraging her family and friends.

  4. Laura Boggess Avatar

    What a lovely quote. I am so sorry for your loss. May God comfort you during this time, and your husband as well. Much love to you.

  5. Liz Avatar

    That is a beautiful quote! So sorry for your loss!