SIGNS


Signs inform us. Direct us. Influence us. They come in all sizes. Some, like the Amish sign above, are simple. Some signs light up. Some flash on and off twenty-four hours a day. Some signs are subtle. Quiet, like a whispering breeze. Precious as a baby's smile. Signs of impending bad weather or a health scare are signs we would prefer to go away.

After losing someone we love, their life is retold over and over again. Signs of their life are everywhere.

They tell a story. 

Their story unfolds as we take care of their things, from fishing poles to books (some with pages marked or paragraphs underlined, or notes scribbled on pieces of paper stuck between pages) to clothing we remember them wearing.

We clean out drawers. Pack up boxes. Those signs are at every turn. On most every wall. On the refrigerator door. In most every room. From favorite magazines and countless editions of newspapers read from front to back, over and over again, to favorite old 45 records-to photos. So many photos. It takes time to go through them. 

Remembering. 

Signs of a loved one at all stages of their life are told in those photos. From newborn to toddler to grade school, high school and beyond. From documenting birthdays, holidays, weddings, favorite homes and rooms inside those homes, especially kitchens where cookies were baked, and cakes were decorated and favorite soups simmered; where cereal was poured into bowls and coffee was perking and pancakes were flipped, those photos document signs of simple moments. Everyday moments that now take on a different meaning. A priceless meaning. Photos of gardens fussed over and trees planted, and boathouses and boats-some loaded with children ready to go fishing; some off to chase big ships and ride their waves, to skating on home-made ice rinks, cutting out pumpkins, getting pears from the pear tree, playing in a sandbox, getting ready for Christmas and so much more, all telling that story, that unique story.

Good times. Bad times. Sad times. Scary times. Unforgettable times. All Signs of a Life. Of Living. Loving. Laughing. Crying.

And saying Goodbye. 







photos


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