Recently I have had a series of friends and acquaintances pass away. Weird how it seems to happen in bunches. I find myself going to way too many funerals and visitations. I have observed how various people deal with the loss of a loved one at these services. Some are tearful and quiet, some are smiling and talkative.
I suspect a lot has to do with the life lived by the deceased. Family members who know their departed one is in heaven are clearly able to handle the loss with a higher level of peace and consolation. They are sad, of course, but they understand their sadness is for themselves, not the one who is in the presence of God. That makes a difference.
It should reinforce our resolve to make sure those we care about know the path to heaven. There is only one. When your time has come, make sure everyone knows where you are, and how they can join you one day.
So true at any funeral.