My wife and I attended a viewing this past weekend. I’ve written about this in the past, I’m a “big baby” about viewings and funerals. Oh, I want to be caring and show my respects. I’m just reticent because I know the event will be full of small talk and I won’t know what to say. In my mind, I’m thinking of the person on the other side of the conversation, they’ve lost someone who meant the world to them, there’s nothing anyone can say that will bring their loved one back. There’s nothing that anyone can say that will make the pain go away.
Having been on the other side, however, I know that those reasons are exactly why it’s important to go, to be with them, to hold their hand, to let them know that they have friends who care. I know that it’s not the words that matter, it’s being there that counts.
As we walked out of the funeral home, I realized that my wife and I celebrated a miniature version of the circle of life so to speak this past weekend, running from a surprise birthday celebration, to watching over a young infant, to attending the viewing. I write about our Circle of Life experience in my latest blog, The Circle of Life in two days, on The Heart of the Matter.
I hope you like my story. I’d love to know if you can relate or if you’ve ever had a similar kind of weekend full of life’s highest highs and lowest lows. Check out the rest of The Heart of the Matter and be sure to subscribe to the site. I think you’ll like it.
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Writing from the Heart with Brian 
We lost a close friend a year ago Thanksgiving and we went to the viewing. We were there for the sons and loved ones in the funeral homes. But we chose not to go into the viewing room. People went in one by one or as couples, but not everyone chose to do that.
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“I know that it’s not the words that matter, it’s being there that counts.” So true. Since losing my husband recently, the most comfort has come from friends and family just being with me.
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I’m so sorry for your loss Nancy! My prayers are with you. I can’t even imagine. When my dad died, it wasn’t the words that anyone said that stuck with me, it was the smiles and small gestures (sometimes weeks after) that meant the world to me. Thanks for commenting, I really do appreciate it!
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So sad I lost my sister a year ago . So sad.Anita
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I’m so sorry for your loss. We’re never prepared.Sending my prayers your way. Thanks for reading.
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Nice write up Brian. I don’t think we really do viewings here – or I’ve never attended one, but I can appreciate what you’re talking about, having attended my share of funerals. I agree, being there is what counts.
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You’re so right Brenda. It’s the thought that counts.
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I have been on both sides and it’s so true, it’s the being there that has meant the most. Thanks for sharing your story. May those who grieve be enveloped by the peace of Christ Jesus.
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Love your last line. Now that’s a caring comment I need to remember to pass along when I’m in the heat of the moment. Ha, ha. Thanks for commenting.
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