Sunday, November 23, 2008

Surety

Yesterday was my cousin's memorial service. My mom had to work, so I had to go solo to represent our side of the family. It wasn't as rough emotionally as I thought it would be. But it helped me clarify a few things.

*When I die there are two things I do not want: a bagpipe version of "Amazing Grace" and any version of "His Eye is on the Sparrow." I will accept a bagpipe version of "John, I'm Only Dancing" or "Ashes to Ashes."

*I have fantastic friends and I am luckier than I deserve.

*If you're not on my side, I have no use for you.
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4 comments:

Pamela Johnson Parker said...

I'm sorry for your loss. I like the ideas of surety this post represents.

I'm glad you have such amazing friends.

I agree with you about all of your points except maybe the first clarification:

* I do want straight-up gospel soul music to astonish and appall my in-laws; I might like "His Eye is on the Sparrow," but only the funked- up Marvin Gaye version with piano accompaniment.

* I want scripture from the Song of Songs and Ecclesiastes, intercut.

* If my former employer (as they are known to do for all retirees) sends a telephone-shaped wreath with ribbon inscription glittering "Jesus Called," my son has promised to bring his Zippo and torch it on the spot.

* I want no gladioli, lilies, or chrysanthemums sent to me by people who in life would not spend 42 cents to mail me a Christmas card.

(Aside: I am not having either a cremation or an interment. I'm donating my body to medical science--that way, my parents will be finally happy that I got into medical school).

Word Verification: EMUSNOT

November 23, 2008 at 2:51 PM
RJGibson said...

Pamela: Thank you.

I agree--a good version of "His Eye is on the Sparrow" is amazing. And good gospel music is non-pareil. Sadly what we got yesterday was quarter-tone flat karaoke gospel. Definitely a no-no. I guess I'll really have to make sure whoever takes care of my last bidness doesn't cheap out on me.

If I were to have scripture at my service...I think it would be a portion of the Song of Songs, the bit about wandering the streets looking for him that my soul doth love.

Your son is good people.

If I were to place any sort of embargo on plants it would only be that I want no artificial ones.

That last bit is too funny. I'm not sure yet what I want done with my evacuated bits. Most likely cremation and a scattering somewhere.

November 23, 2008 at 3:21 PM
Collin Kelley said...

Sorry to hear about your cousin. How about a bagpipe version of "Boys Keep Swinging?" I think that would suit you.

November 23, 2008 at 11:48 PM
RJGibson said...

Do you think "Boys..." would work with a drone instrument?

November 24, 2008 at 2:27 PM

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