It's all Gift!

I just came from one of the best funerals I've ever attended, and I certainly hope someday mine will be like this one. It was filled with joy and spirit and celebration. Walt was one of the pastors in my text study group, and he had Parkinson's for the last 17 years. But through all the struggles and frustrations, he had a motto: "It's all gift" and that was the theme of the memorial.

The service was a celebration of music offered by very talented musicians on a variety of eclectic instruments, a rousing sermon by Walt's former colleague (lots of "Amens" and spirit in Reggie's sermons,) spontaneous sharing and stories from those of us in the congregations, and the meal of communion. From the very start, as we sang "Lift Every Voice" (very appropriate on this 40th anniversary of Martin Luther King's assasination too) I knew we were in for a treat. Every song was a celebration of life and a response to God's call to work for justice and peace. That was so very Walt! Sharing of the peace lasted a good 15 minutes too. Great remembrance of a man who loved to have fun.

I wasn't sure I wanted to go to the service - traffic to get downtown at the start of rush hour, limited parking, not the usual way to start a weekend - but I'm sure glad I did. For one thing, it was a definite reminder to see the gift that life is, but mostly it filled my spirit. I sure have been needing that lately. Thank you Walt, for teaching me to celebrate the gift!