Afterglow

"Afterglow
I'd like the memory of me to be a happy one.
I'd like to leave an afterglow of smiles when life is done
I'd like to leave an echo whispering softly down the ways,
Of happy times and laughing times and bright and sunny days.
I'd like the tears of those who grieve, to dry before the sun;
Of happy memories that I leave when life is done."

I found the author of this beautiful poem:
The "Afterglow" poem by Helen Lowrie Marshall is a well-loved and widely used funeral poem. It focuses on the positive memory of a life well-lived, emphasizing joy and light rather than dwelling on sadness. The poem's core message is to leave behind a lasting impression of happiness and warmth, even after death. 

This lovely text was on the last page of the the brochure given out to everyone in the church.
Yesterday, I went to the Celebration of Life ceremony for my dear English friend, Stephanie. So beautiful and so emotional. Her two lovely daughters were so brave. We said that we'd definitely stay in touch.  We already exchange through WhatsApp.

I made a collage of the pretty windows in the church and added a small shot of the three flower mandalas I made for Stephanie's sister and her daughters.

I feel very bereft at the loss of my dear friend, one of the best and kindest of all my friends. Also, one of the last English-speaking friends I have over here.

I shall have to read uplifting and positive books and get out and walk in the healing properties of nature.