This past week was a tough one for us. But, I learned to appreciate friendships — new and old. We lost our dear friend Mark on Thanksgiving night who we’ve known for decades, but afterwards we got closer to his friends and family. We attended a viewing that was for his family and closest friends. There will be a funeral in Seattle, where he grew up and lived until a few years ago, after the holidays.
I wasn’t anxious to attend the viewing. It seemed to be on the morbid side to me. But it turned out to be very comforting. It was in a building with a nice waiting area with comfortable couches and chairs. The 20 or so of us friends and family gathered and hugged. By ones and twos people would go into the separate viewing area. My husband and I chose not to because we wanted to remember Mark as we knew him. One of his sons went in and one stayed out.
Afterwards, we went to lunch with some of Mark’s family and with one couple who flew down from Seattle for the viewing. Mark had introduced us to the Seattle couple in the spring. We hit it off and I’ve visited the Seattle couple when I’m up there to see my mom. They are planning on moving to Arizona when they retire and they bought a house here because of Mark that they’ve rented out. They asked to stay with us. I’m so glad they did. It was nice to be with them and share memories about Mark. I feel like our friendship has been cemented and that we’re in a special club for “Friends of Mark.” We are new friends who will become old friends — God willing.
In the evening, we all gathered at Mark’s house for finger foods and a pasta dinner prepared by his family. All the time with these friends and people I haven’t seen for years, or who I met for the first time, was a big step in healing. I returned home feeling peaceful and less sad and fragile. I’m happy for the time we had Mark in our lives and I’m amazed at how he touched so many people.
Do you think that since March 2020, we lost connection with friends and family and the joy it brings to our lives? Did you, or were you able to stay close to your loved ones?
I lost touch with my one last small group of friends. I pretty much talk to my wife, kids, siblings and have one text group of friends from high school.
I’ve lost touch with a number of old friends, too. There are a few I still see.
I’m sorry for your loss! Losing a friend is hard and nowadays, it’s even harder. I’m glad you got to be mutual friends.
Thank you. I understand now how the comfort of being with other people is so important.
Indeed, sharing of grief helps us deal with it.
It really helped us. One of the sons is coming to Arizona from Seattle to take care of his dad’s house. I’m hoping he’ll take the time to come over for dinner. I can’t imagine his grief.
Yes indeed. Losing parents is very hard.
Yes. I think we lost a lot in the time since March 2020. And I think people will regret this
It took a gathering like we had this past week to put it in perspective.
Sometimes it has to slap you in the face
No kidding. I wonder how much harm being isolated has done to people around the country — and the world?
Way too much
The pandemic didn’t affect my family much but friends, yes. Not that we’ve lost touch exactly but we definitely did more things together. My mom had moved from 5 minutes away to 2 hours away a year before so we were already having less connection. I’m glad that you were able to get some closure and make new friendships. That sky is gorgeous.
Thank you! Yes, I feel like a new person this week.
I’m so sorry for your loss, and so glad you had the opportunity to mourn with those who loved Mark! Hugs, C
Thank you. Mark’s son came back this week to work on so much of his dad’s estate. We spent time with him remembering.