A Day of Comfort, A Celebration of Life

The funeral services and surrounding activities were beautiful. Many people commented on our strength and serenity, and I know that it is due to the many prayers offered to give us comfort and the ability to get through the things we needed to. I especially appreciated the musical numbers. I wanted the music to be child-centered because of the nature of this funeral and because it would be something meaningful to Natalie. Merideth’s cousins sang “Teach Me To Walk In The Light” and their parents joined in on the second verse. I also had my brothers and their wives sing a quartet of “Children of Our Heavenly Father,” which is a song I had sung in choir but the situation gave the words special meaning. It was absolutely beautiful. Their voices blended so well and Spencer’s solo on the second verse was just amazing. I can’t really express what I want to say about it, but that song is one of the memories I will return to when I think about this day.

When we were discussing what we wanted for the funeral, Aaron said he really thought the parents should speak. I thought it was a crazy idea but he was certainly welcome to do it if he wanted. The idea grew on me, however,and I knew that he was right that we were the ones who knew Merideth best and should share our experience. I was willing to give it a try, even though I was not sure I would be able to get through it. I talked about the different roles her family played in her life: a father watches out for his child and seeks what is best for her, a sister is an example and friend and a mother provides comfort. Aaron spoke about our journey before Merideth was born and how and why we made the decisions we did. In the end I’m grateful we were able to do it. As I said, we received great comfort and strength throughout the day.

The recording of "Families Can Be Together Forever"
used by permission and is from the CD
"The Power and the Glory" by Camarata
www.celestial-visions.com