Over the fall of a sparrow

I woke up to such sad news this morning, the loss of a dear aunt, one of my mom's younger sisters. Mary.

I'm thinking of her today. Of her hilarious laugh and great humor, her devotion to family traditions and good meals, her brilliant mind, her compassion, her long and valiant efforts to stay aloft. 

My mom sent this a bit ago, a few words written by my dad this morning (thank you, Dad, I hope you don't mind I'm including this here). I think they sum up my feelings perfectly.

. . .

FreeFall
for Mary

I heard that a thousand birds fell out of an Arkansas sky the other day,
Red-winged blackbirds I think they were.
And not only in Arkansas but in Louisiana, Kansas even Sweden
All over the world these blackbirds, starlings, and sparrows
Beautiful, fragile, delicate birds, falling out of the night time sky
It breaks your heart 

Yesterday a bird fell out of the sky in Utah,
And I don’t know exactly why or what the reason was
Was its navigation system impaired? Was it buffeted by fierce winds?
I think it finally just gave up all hope of reaching a warmer, safer land
And then this beautiful, fragile, delicate bird fell out of the night time sky
It just breaks your heart 

M.Bentley
January 5, 2011
Logan

Comments

[Christie]

I am so sorry, friend. It is never easy to lose someone we love. You are all in our prayers. Hugs!

[Jenny]

Just beautiful... and delicate and fragile and heartbreaking.
Sorry.

[Linsey]

I'm sorry about your aunt, I hope you find comfort in your memories of her. Your Dad's sentiments are beautiful.

[sevensmiles]

xoxo

[Rochelle]

Ah, Annie, having just experienced this myself, I so understand the feelings and the pain. I am so very very sorry.

[Liz]

I'm thinking of you my friend. Much love your way!

[Lisa-Marie]

I am sorry, Annie. I hope being at the funeral, and with those you love and who love your aunt will bring you some peace. And I give you permission to eat as many cinnamon rolls as you want, without guilt. I think that is life rule #399. It's the fine print that accompanies the funeral rule.

[robin]

Brings tears to my eyes. And yes, always go to the funeral.