Bittersweet

This past weekend we got to say goodbye to the best Grumpa in the entire world. We got to be together as a family and share favorite memories, funny sayings and time to just be together. I've kinda pondered this the past few days and have come to the conclusion that when a older person, who has lived a full and happy life, leaves this world the gathering of loved should be a celebration. Of course there will be a tear shed here and there, but mostly I think there is joy in being surrounded in unconditional love. I believe that's just how the lost loved one would want it. I love all the hugs and "I love you's" and the laughing and joking. I particularly enjoyed all of the smiles from across rooms and small nods of heads, the just say to me "I love you too." I know that there are sitiuations when loved ones leave too early or unexpectedly, and those can be difficult. In my experiance those can be full of wonderful moments too.

 My dearly departed Grumpa left this world surrounded by family, with dignity and much love. We celbrated his long and wonderful life, together. We shared his honor ,with any in earshot, with a 21 Gun Salute. There wasn't a dry eye as Taps was played to send him on his way. We stood tall and proud as they folded a beautiful American Flag to present his amazing, and strong, wife. His procession was filled with friends and family. Every life he touched was better for knowing him. He left behind an extraordinary legacy of love and honor, an example of how we should strive to be towards others. I love my granddad Bob. I love that there are members of the vfamily that have his gentle eyes, so I can see them smiling still. I'm grateful   for the knowledge I have of eternal families, and how I know I'll get to hug him, again. The hardest part of saying good bye to such a full person, is knowing that there are others who will feel just a little empty for a bit. I hurt for my daddy and Grandma, and all my aunts and uncles, but I take great comfort in knowing that pain won't last forever.

      I LOVE YOU Bob Pierson!!!!!