Touched

Death touches us all in life.

Life touches us in death.

Is there a word for someone who loves being alive? "I can control my heart with my mind." he used to say. His heart was weak, his mind strong. Until the very end. The medication weakened his mind, made him forget my face along with his daughters. There was no chance for his heart.

When were you first touched by death?

He used to tell me stories of men who had long since been dead and lived on only in his memories, in his stories, and now in the video tapes that I took while he talked. There is such joy and such sadness in remembering a friend who is no longer alive. The good old days.

I remember my mother speaking at her mother's funeral. Such tenderness in her voice. How could we not cry. The first death she ever witnessed was her own sisters almost a decade earlier. Then another sister, then a mother, now a father.

There is life in death. Waiting to be nurtured and resurrected. We live on with pieces of our dead flowing through our veins, influencing our thoughts, cheering us on.

Comments

[nadia]

dear ellie, we are in deep grief for the lose of a great man who was a symbol of strength, disciple and hope in life. i grew up in my uncle's house with your mom being my best cousin and friend. i had my best memories from that house in ariashar. i miss the good old times that amoo provided for all. we used to play there all the time and i would pretend that i am asleep that my mom and dad would not take me home , so i could stay there one more day. i am so greatful for those days. and i am so greatful to have you as a role model for all young people. you are a great person with a big heart and inspiration . i love u so much and you always have a great saying to give us hope to move on in life. keep up the great spirit. love you all nadia

[Hector]

Hi Ellie-

My condolences to you and your family.
We have to try to remember that we're here just temporily and that we have to make it the best that we can, impacting people's lives in a positive way. Although he may not be here physically his teachings, wisdom, love, kindness lives through you.