Celebration For What Remains ...

The stuff of our lives doesn't change.

It is we who change in relations to it.

Molly Vass

Reluctantly, I attended a meditation dedicated to a family who had a daughter, sister, wife, loved one whisked out of their lives without any notice.  I worried that the meditation would become dramatic and more depressing than the situation already was, as if that were possible.  But I was very inaccurate in my suspicions, as the evening left me feeling uplifted, strong, and honoring the lives of many.

We sat in a circle of faces known and unknown, both young and old.  There was a table in the middle of the room holding candles and items people had brought for the family ... an altar of sorts.  There were shells, rocks, necklaces, flowers and symbolic pieces of love.  We all signed a card as well as a small notebook our friend could turn to when she randomly needed to hear support when none was available to her. 

A puja was offered ... a puja is two circles with participants facing each other.  Only the outer circle moves to the left while the inner stationery circle holds the person across from them with the hands, eyes, and loving kindness enveloping them.  This may sound simple, but it is an extraordinary experience of silent communication.  It offers a safe place to release grief, love, forgiveness or any repressed emotions.  A few moments of being present in each others lives.

Artistic dance and expression followed.  In a circle, one by one, each participant was allowed the time to express what they were feeling through movement and the circle duplicated each individual sacred gesture. 

We also sat in a circle, allowing each person time to articulate their intentions for the family ... strength, hope, forgiveness, spiritual connection, beginning new paths.  Sentiments were also offered for the safe passage of this young vibrant woman into the thereafter, being greeted by what ever waited for her on the other side. 

There was drumming and chanting, freeing our spirits to join together in love, peace, and hope ... all energies extended to the table altar symbolizing the grieving family.  All lives were honored.  Lives of those present, past and yet to come.  Hopeful inspirations were abundant.

Driving home, I was so thankful I had attended this eclectic gathering of loved ones and friends.  It was not a morbid mourning of what was lost, but rather a hopeful celebration for everything remaining.