Perhaps it’s rude to write a blog while sitting in a funeral home, but hey, it’s what I do. I’m also the kind of person to make a joke and think of funny memories at a place like this. Someone has to brighten things up. (Insert eye roll here.)
I know wakes are supposed to be somber and mournful. According to my experience, people are supposed to cry, talk about the elephant in the casket, and wail about how things went wrong. I also know that everyone hates them. (Except maybe for the people who work there.)
The person who passed was Bina’s BFF’s father. Someone who was super friendly and easy going. Bina spoke very highly of him.
It’s doubly tragic that he committed suicide right after Thanksgiving. My heart aches as I wonder what happened that day, that weekend, that would push this man into wanting to end it the Monday after such a “thankful” holiday.
According to his ex-wife, he had struggled with depression for a long time. So it was possibly an extension of loneliness? When everyone was having “family time,” maybe he was alone? I don’t know. I didn’t ask, have no intention of asking, but still, the morbid curiosity is piqued.
Which leads to our own lives and the lives of those around us.
Some believe that technology has created a barrier between individuals; instead of speaking with one another, we look to our phones and computers. But humans need the support of other humans. Bonding over words and laughter, games and food. Sometimes we forget that we are social animals. Even the most antisocial among us still needs someone.
So, tonight’s advice: stay connected with family, make friends and stay connected with them, too. Put the phones away for a little bit. Don’t get me wrong, I love technology. But once in a while, it’s a good idea to be present and actually look at the person with you.
Electronic, long distance, super tight hugs!!
Lena
❤
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