Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Family Ties

I have a lot to write about in my journal today. I have felt so full of sadness, joy, and love, love, love. Today was the funeral of my Grandma, Margaret Manning McCracken. There is too much to write here, and it is too personal, really. But for my siblings (who I love sooooo much), I wanted to post a couple of things that happened and were said that I want to remember.
First, let me say that I am so lucky to be part of this family. As Margie said at the funeral today, I feel like I won the jackpot in having been chosen to come to this family.

Last night, after leaving the viewing, I was listening in on a conversation being had by the kids in the back seat. Bennett said something so beautiful, it is worth sharing here. He said,

"Seeing a dead person is weird, huh, guys? It's like they are just sleeping there. And really, they are. Grandma Stick is like Sleeping Beauty, and she isn't going to wake up until Jesus kisses her."

Kids are amazing; they know more about most things than we could hope to.

Also, a special experience I had today came as I made a total mess of the piano piece I was invited to play at the funeral. WHILE I was playing, Jake came up and stood by me to tell me he had to go to the bathroom and the door was too heavy and he couldn't find Jason. So I was a leetle distracted, and missed some notes. Several, actually. But here's what happened: I didn't care! Usually after I have performed and I don't do well, I beat myself up and swear off performing ever again. But this time, the thoughts came very clearly to me that the song was a gift to Grandma, not to the audience. And guess what? Grandma would have loved it. For her, it was good enough. Perfect, even. That's just how she was. And I have felt so powerfully blessed by her love all day long. I will forever. May I be just a teensy bit more like her is my wish and prayer tonight.







8 comments:

Sarah said...

I'm so sorry to hear about your Grandma. I remember going to her house on a few occasions and she was just the sweetest lady. Your family is in my prayers.

Megan said...

I, too am sorry to hear about her. I met her serveral times and she was a sweetie indeed. Your post made me cry, but in a good, sweet, felt-the-spirit kind of way. I love the pictures you posted! I love your family and agree, you won the jackpot with them. P.S. Wowee, Lee is TALL and handsome! :) Love ya tons!

Mrs B said...

I can't even comment because I'm crying (again) & can't think straight. I guess that was a comment, but you know.... Love you.

mrs.d said...

Thanks for sharing, friend. Ooooo, I just love you. Bennett's special way of putting meaning into words has always been one of the things that endears me to him. Love and hugs to your sweet family.

Weezie said...

I'm sorry to hear about your Grandma. We only met her a few times but you always had lots of fun stories about her and that side of the family and I know she will be missed. My prayers are with all of you.

Jenni said...

So sorry...

Julie said...

No more awesome photos of your Grandma? I always loved photos of her because she oozed light. She had to have been great. Look at what she has produced. Your mom & now you.

Sarah O. said...

Brooke, this post brought tears to my eyes...having a hard time typing really. I am so sorry for the loss you and your family have experienced...you are lucky to have her spirit live on through you, your kids, and family. Jackpot!