I Hate Funerals
I had to go to a funeral this morning. God, I hate them. My dad's side of the family is a bit twisted (Craig says my family tree doesn't branch, but the truth is that it branches TOO much! My grandparents were once step-brother and sister!) so the man that died was my first step-grandmother's brother in law. (See?) Lyle worked for my grandfather and he was ALWAYS waiting with a quarter for the coke machine (I'm soooooo old!!!) whenever we came to my grandfather's office. Really, just the sweetest man. He was quite old and quite ill... way past ready to go so in that regard it isn't sad. However, it does mark the passage of time and is yet another reminder that we aren't here forever.
My dad was a palbearer and I felt horrible for him. It was soooooooooo hot!! 90 something degrees at 11am and he was wearing a suit. My mom and I went together and decided to skip the graveside services. I don't regret it one bit!
Even though Lyle was dearly loved I didn't cry when I found out he'd passed, but I ALWAYS cry at funerals and I really hate going just because of that. I hate seeing people sad.
On that note, Craig and I had a wierd conversation just a couple of hours ago. Whenever I see someone standing on a street corner asking for money I almost always do it. Even if all I have is change. I try to do something. Craig and I went to lunch and there was a guy standing there begging on the way home. I had a couple of dollars in my purse and asked Craig to hand it to him. He said that it was ridiculous and said the guy needed to get a job. Maybe so. But I'm already a bitch, I don't want to be callous, too. I told him I'd rather give someone a dollar or two and have them waste in on drugs or alcohol rather than driving past and ignoring somone who might really need it. I realize that most of the beggars actually haul in more cash than we suspect (some reports suggest upwards of $50k a year) but a couple of dollars here and there are preferable to leaving someone who might really be hungry or needy. I just can't help it.
So, sue me.
Comments
I'm so sorry for your loss. I always cry too.. even if I don't know the person, it's just really grabs my heart when people are grieving.
I'm the same way with giving money as well. If I'm in a position to give a small amount and that small amount might mean someone's only meal that day - I'll take that chance. If they spend it on something else, well it's worth it to me to take that chance.
Posted by: Christine | May 24, 2008 11:26 PM