I am a member of the Coastal Georgia Nurse Honor Guard and consequently, I attend a lot of funerals. We gave a tribute yesterday at the funeral of a nurse who was in her 80’s. Before the soloist got up to sing the opening gospel song, she confided to all of us that her father had just died twelve hours ago. Yet she loved this woman so much that she took the time to come and honor her the best way that she knew. Many of the guests took turns coming up to the front to testify about the life of this woman and the effect that she had had on them. There was no talk of degrees or wealth or fame, just pure love. I rarely cry when I participate in these legacy tributes, but I felt the tears rolling down my face yesterday as I listened to their stories. I think that’s why reading your post today really hit home with me.
I haven't been able to participate in our local Nurse Honor Guard but I deeply respect the dedication of those who do. These tributes are very moving .
Well said, Ed! Much better to have a stellar resume that centers around family and friends, rather than for the ability to move patients. I do not wish to see "He knew how to treat-'em and street-'em!" on my tombstone...or as we say here in NM: "Diagnose and Adios!"
On most gravestones, the date of birth and death are listed. The dash that connects them is an inadequate summary of a life lived, whether well or otherwise. Was the individual a person who left the world a better place, were there people whose lives were touched, whose death closes a chapter of joy and worth? That is what make a life successful, not accumulated things, not the tangible (for the most part) but the happiness created.
Great essay aside, I am distracted by the fact that we also have three boys and now a girl (under the age of 6) so this photo of your children is reminding me that they will, Lord willing, grow into adults!!
Here lies Dr. Metric. He really moved the meat.
A fine-looking group of young'uns Herr Doctor!
Such a thoughtful piece.
I am a member of the Coastal Georgia Nurse Honor Guard and consequently, I attend a lot of funerals. We gave a tribute yesterday at the funeral of a nurse who was in her 80’s. Before the soloist got up to sing the opening gospel song, she confided to all of us that her father had just died twelve hours ago. Yet she loved this woman so much that she took the time to come and honor her the best way that she knew. Many of the guests took turns coming up to the front to testify about the life of this woman and the effect that she had had on them. There was no talk of degrees or wealth or fame, just pure love. I rarely cry when I participate in these legacy tributes, but I felt the tears rolling down my face yesterday as I listened to their stories. I think that’s why reading your post today really hit home with me.
I haven't been able to participate in our local Nurse Honor Guard but I deeply respect the dedication of those who do. These tributes are very moving .
Well said, Ed! Much better to have a stellar resume that centers around family and friends, rather than for the ability to move patients. I do not wish to see "He knew how to treat-'em and street-'em!" on my tombstone...or as we say here in NM: "Diagnose and Adios!"
On most gravestones, the date of birth and death are listed. The dash that connects them is an inadequate summary of a life lived, whether well or otherwise. Was the individual a person who left the world a better place, were there people whose lives were touched, whose death closes a chapter of joy and worth? That is what make a life successful, not accumulated things, not the tangible (for the most part) but the happiness created.
Ed, you have summarized the essences once again.
Great essay aside, I am distracted by the fact that we also have three boys and now a girl (under the age of 6) so this photo of your children is reminding me that they will, Lord willing, grow into adults!!
So true. Many realize this too late of course. Hence the reason our society is in the state it is in.