It's funny the things we choose to remember from our childhood and the times we choose to remember them. Some memories are bright and vivid and full of color, so much so that one could almost reach out and find themselves fully seated in the past. Other memories sit so far back that even when we want to pull them forward they are slightly out of focus for us. My uncle Harvey was laid to rest today. I loved him; although I didn't know him well. It's unfortunate that we live so far from family and that life keeps us so busy we don't get to be near our families like we would like to be. The few memories I do have of my uncle though are very pleasant. It's rare for one to have no ill or bad memories of any relative, but I honestly have nothing negative to say and no bad memories of him. I remember a time when lots of family were at his and my aunt Gertie's home and my cousin Dwayne was about two and he was dancing for uncle Harvey. I remember him laughing and laughing at how cute he thought it was. I have other memories but that one stands most vivid in my mind on this day. I think it's important when we look back on someones life to be able to remember them smiling and happy. It's never easy to think of a piece of our past or a portion or our present as being gone and no longer obtainable. I know his family all loved him. I know this will be hard on them. I can't even imagine how hard it will be when the day comes for me to say goodbye for that final time to my mom or my dad. I know it's coming; I watch as they slip further and further but it's still not something I'm ready to face as much as I think I'm strong when it comes to facing death. I have seen death many times and lost many that I long to see again some day. I still, even knowing that death is not an end, don't wish to say good bye and not have my loved ones here to hold. I know when I do have to face it though I have many who love me and who will be there to support me. I am lucky in that respect. For all my family and friends, whether I see you daily or only speak with you occasionally or even only connect on face book. I love you. To uncle Harvey I hope you're smiling and laughing and waiting on those you left behind until we all can meet again.
