In My Thoughts

My Dad asked me if I wanted to read out a poem or something at my Grandma's funeral.  As much as I would love to do it, I don't think I would be able to stand up in front of everyone without crying my heart out, and would therefore not be able to do any poem justice.  So instead, the poem below will be included in the service sheet as my little contribution.

This was the first one that popped into my head when Dad asked me, and the more I read it the more appropriate it seemed to be.  You can look at it from so many angles - as if it was us reading it to Grandma whilst she was in hospital, or as if it is Grandma reading it to us now to comfort us.  Whichever way, it's a beautiful and comforting poem.

I couldn't see you today,

So I sent you my thoughts.

Living and vibrant they sped through the air,

Out through the ether, through miles and through time.

I hope you received them and knew I was there.

I couldn't see you today,

So I sent you my love.

It travelled through space like a bright shooting star,

With the joy of the morning, the warmth of the sun,

To wrap itself around you wherever you are.

I couldn't see you today,

So I sent out a prayer,

For I knew you were troubled and heavy of heart.

And so with my thoughts, and my love and my prayers,

Though distance divides us, we're never apart.

Iris Hesselden.

It also seemed quite apt, because I found this poem in a book of poetry left to me by my Nan when she passed away, and one of my clearest memories from being at her funeral was standing outside afterwards and watching my Grandma as she carefully looked at the flowers and read all the cards.  I just remember her presence was a huge comfort and support for us.