She spoke at Henry's Memorial Service. So did Casey and Jess. Henry's grandma Jan wrote something and had it read. Zane lit a candle, Anastasia played a song on the piano, mom read "Oh, the Places You'll Go." and dad gave a Eulogy that was honest, vulgar, tender and full of love - for Henry and his father. He has now eulogized his own father and son.
Rebecca, our lovely and supportive and observant officiant - delivered the service to us with grace and gentleness. She knew Henry, she loved Henry. The podium, in front of sad, grieving and expectant loved ones - could not have been an easy place to be. Her husband and family managed the kitchen and food for us. We could not have done without them.
Brendan - our hospice volunteer and now friend - managed the technical stuff for us. We'll have the evidence of that later in the week!
"It was really nice to see all of those people show up for Henry." Zane said upon reflection this morning.
A lot of people came. People who knew us, knew Henry, but we hadn't met yet. People who knew us, but hadn't met Henry - yet were touched by our love for him. People we hadn't seen in decades. People we had never met, but now are securely wrapped in the love that we shared for Henry.
Relationships were healed. Love and honesty shone along with the sun as it spilled through the colored glass of the sanctuary.
Many of us whispered a "Thank you Henry." as we walked away from the evening. Filled with love, hope and promise.
We miss Henry. Profoundly. Henry changed us. Henry made us vulnerable to other people's grief. Henry motivated us to change the world. Henry motivated us to be the best people that we could be.
Because he was. He was the best person he could be. Honestly. Painfully. Joyfully. "150%"
Thank you Henry.
