In times of loss ....

I wasn't happy with the outcome of my second piece for the collaborative project. I kept reworking it and trying different styles but nothing worked. Yesterday morning I was back to the drawing board and trying again - my mind was occupied with thoughts of my Nana who had passed away on Wednesday. I suddenly had a flash of inspiration and this piece is inspired by her - for her ....

My Nana was an artist too - she started later in life and painted watercolours - still lifes' and florals'. She regularly attended painting classes and it gave her immense joy.

Today is her funeral. How do you ever pay homage to a person that has touched your life in so many ways - who you loved completely - and who loved you unconditionally ....

My Nana had a huge capacity for unconditional love. Everyone was welcomed into her home and heart. She was considerate of others and thought of their needs. She gave her time freely and even with a huge extended family always made time for one on one with each of us. She was generous and thoughtful - she loved to give. Nana was gracious and appreciative and one of her favourite sayings was "you really shouldn't have". She didn't want anyone making a fuss of her or to be a bother or imposition. She loved life and had a willingness to go anywhere, do anything at anytime. Nana always kept up with what was happening in everyones' lives - she was without doubt the heart of the family. To sum her up in a few words and do her justice is impossible - but I would say that Nana had a huge capacity for giving - giving time, energy and love - we will miss her enormously.

One thing I'm grateful for is that I before she passed I told her once again that I loved her - and thanked her for all that she brought into my life - and the love she gave us. Sometimes it can be hard to tell people how much they mean to us when they are alive - and to express gratitude for all they have given to us .... and how much we love them. Do it now - when it matters - don't wait til their funeral to tell them.

In times of loss my spirituality is what brings me comfort and what enables me to rejoice in the persons life as opposed to mourning that they are gone. Of course there is always sadness with loss ... that is inevitable ...