We are home now, exhausted from an emotional weekend. The services to remember Henry Mackaman were beautiful - and gut wrenching. It's completely unnatural to be saying goodbye to someone who is so young. Our extended O'Hara family knows the feeling all too well...
But, there is beauty in the reminders that each life matters. That's the good part, right? Those people were there to remember because Henry mattered. People liked Henry because he was genuine. He was himself. He was the kind of kid you'd want to hang around. So reminiscent of our dear girl.
It felt good to be surrounded by family, and Erin was happy to get to hang out with all her cousins. Such a tight bond these cousins have all formed over the past two years. This weekend, they shared lots of hugs, laughter, and tears. And we all shared lots of music. Henry was an avid musician, and playing some live music was the best way to honor his memory. So, family and friends held an Irish wake on Friday night, playing a show at a local establishment. We sang and danced and grieved.
The Saturday memorial service brought more music and words of solace and encouragement. Beautiful words from family and friends. Shannon's name was mentioned from the altar, and for many of us, we were thinking about Henry and Shannon simultaneously. The four pews of O'Haras - ranging in age from 12 to 89 - all had their minds on not one, but two kids gone too soon.
Dan, Erin and I feel for Henry's family - immediate and extended - as they now start down the path of re-learning how to live. They are changed in ways they don't even realize yet. Erin shared a most heartfelt hug with Owen, Henry's younger brother. Erin hugged this young man and told him, "You can get through this. We'll stick together." Damn, she is a wise old soul...
I was left with the feeling that I was being reminded one more time by the universe to try and live a good life. Leave your presence with those you meet by engaging in the human experience. We don't get to choose how long we're here, but we do get to choose how we spend that time. Whether you live to be 21, or 89, or 13, make it matter, and enjoy it while you are here...
