Funerals are always sad. Funerals for people who die early really suck. Funerals for people who die early, violently are even worse. It's so surreal, but it's real, it's true. That is what Princess kept grappling with Sunday- what do you mean? Are you serious? Did it really happen? Luz's quasi sister (her niece that grew up with her) told me she was awakened Friday morning to someone telling her Luz was dead and she said "shut up, that's not even funny".
The funeral started with an 80%white youth choir singing to an 80% mixed minority audience. They sang "friends are friend forever". They barely moved their lips, some sang as they wiped tears, they were stone faced, totally devoid of joy. The church was packed. No one really knows how interconnected they are, how their life is such an important part of a larger community until that life is gone. Family, teachers, neighbors, librarian, BigBrothersBigSisters coordinator, schoolmates, acquaintances... came to show support to the family and say goodbye.
I got to sit with Princess' family, behind the immediate family- which was extensive (from here and Mexico). The youth pastor gave a message and shared also that Luz had given her life to Jesus at some point. I'm not here to judge and I am thankful that God is more gracious than I, but sometimes I wonder when at funerals, there seems to always be a need to explain or prove how the person did "make it" into heaven. It makes us feel better if basically everyone makes it.
The most profound message came from two sisters. They read some letters people had given them, then shared from their hearts... "Cherish your family, your friends, hug them, love them, tell them you love them, because you never know how long you will have and you can't go back once they are gone."
We were the last to file by the body before the family was left alone with Luz. Princess' mom lost it. She was screaming: "We love you Kissy" and crying uncontrollably. Princess' mom helped raise Luz since they lived across the street from each other and her and Princess were the same age.
May this family and all those affected by this terrible loss find the Peace that passes understanding. May this beautiful seed of life that fell to the ground bring forth life for others. May some change their ways, their path to destruction, may others give more, love more, connect more. May we all build each other up, our friends, our family, the lonely kid on the block, the bully. Because we are all linked and a life zapped out before her prime affects us all.
***************************************************************************
Saturday, we had our first week of our backyard fun club. In light of the tragedy in loosing Luz, I felt that this club was especially important. Through it we have met kids on the street and earned the trust of their parents so that they visit throughout the year.
Jessie came to help, but had to leave when she got a call that her homeless friend was stranded here, back in town. MJ also came bringing 2 girls. No one else came. Part of me was angry since I'd gotten so much prepared, not to mention my pride was hurt, and I was a little embarrassed- because in our society to be a success is to have numbers and lots of activity. Then I remembered how I'd prayed that whoever needed to be there would be there, how timely it was that MJ called just as I was starting up the group and said she was interested (we hadn't seen each other in nearly a year), how we got to really talk and have a lot of fun too with a couple of sweet girls. I pray they will have a bright future. I pray their life will not end in tragedy or be riddled with the identity issues Luz struggled through. I pray they will feel loved and know acceptance and friendship. I pray the time we spent together made a difference for them. For even if we only brought a smile, or relief to the monotony of the week- we have succeeded. For what value could just a cold cup of water have on a life? Only the Lord knows.
No comments:
Post a Comment