Beauty in Life

Yesterday, I received word that my aunt’s son died, my oldest cousin. Scott was a different soul, his gift was to make people laugh. A handsome man that followed his own path in life, right or wrong. His passing spurred me to call his oldest sister. During my phone call with Jill, I realized how much she meant to me. I have maybe talked to her 5 times in my life, but when we talk I feel so comfortable talking with her.

Jill and I talked about many things, especially family. Is there such a thing as inherited creativity? I think our shared genetics demonstrates the creative soul in our family. Some pursue the passion, others have their little hobbies, and some just let the creativity sit dormant (maybe permanently). My talk with Jill was good. I think of her often. She doesn’t live too far from here and I should visit her more. But “life” gets in the way.

Then while talking with my sister about the passing of Scott, she mentioned the “other side” of the family. She went to my uncle’s services earlier this month (read). In her visit, she re-connected with my mother’s family.  She felt deeply connected with some of the family. Even though they live many states apart, she felt  as if they were good friends she saw every day.

I had a similar experience several years ago, where I reconnected with another cousin I hardly knew. Again the connection happened around a death, this time his father, my uncle.

It is sad to experience the death of family. Its like a hole is ripped from you. The size of the whole correlates to the intensity of the relationship. But none-the-less something is missing from you, when you have to say good-bye. The fact is we’re all going to go. We’re going to lose someone we love and we’re going to leave someone behind.

Although, I don’t like to be around death. I can appreciate it for the beauty it holds. It makes you stop and reflect upon your life. It brings you closer to people. It has the ability to soften your soul or make it harder. It molds you like a piece of clay. I enjoy the beauty of reconnecting with people I love and the occasional kick in the head that tells me “don’t neglect this relationship.”

Last month, while walking the dogs. I found this butterfly. It must have only recently seen its death. The bug was completely intact and outrageously beautiful. I took many photos, because rarely will I have the opportunity to be this close to see the details of such a majestic creature. So again, death offered me beauty. It made me stop and realize that life is beautiful.

Take a moment to think about the beauty in your life and cherish it. Don’t wait for death to show you the door.