Recently we went to a friends memorial service. Tom was the twin brother of a very very dear friend of mine and his passing is something I will never understand the pain of loosing a twin. Although I did not know Tom very well, his siblings and entire family are one of those families you embrace immediately when you meet them. Everyone, from mom to the newest member of the 14 sibling clan and their spouses and children enfold you when you meet, and right away you are part of them and everything they stand for.
Toms service was so beautiful in a very beautiful church in North Wildwood. Being brought up Jewish, attending church is something I obviously do not do often and funerals are one of the times I do attend a service and they are always nice. This service in particular was one of the nicest I have ever attended. Knowing the family helped me be comfortable in the church but it was more than that. The priest was very very warm and very welcoming, and made me feel a part of the entire event. The service was very nice and simple, and more about the person, the memory, and where Tom is now than about the religion. I laughed, cried, and smiled through the entire service feeling I knew Tom even better for them allowing us to learn about the person, the man, and everything surrounding his life and family. I thank the priest for this lovely service and know that there is a way to feel good about going to any service even when you are not practicing.
