My thoughts as the funeral is taking place today:

A snapshot of life….we all in this chapel share this moment in time at the funeral of my coworker’s teenage son. As we listen to the heartfelt tributes and memories, through tears and moments of laughter, together as friends, family, and even complete strangers, it is a bonding moment that will pass when we exit this room. But, for a moment, we are bonded together listening as the family tries to keep this young man’s memory alive.

I believe there is an amazing family reunion on the other side of heaven, just like there is on this side. The veil between heaven and earth seems thin when a family member passes from this life to the next.

A great story from one of this young man’s aunts is after Jackson’s passing, when her husband, Jackson’s uncle, asked through the air looking upward, “Jackson, if you are there, make it smell like skunk.” Unbeknownst to the aunt that this request took place several minutes earlier, she walked over to the part of the house where her husband was so she could tell him that there was a strong smell of skunk outside and she was worried there might be a skunk in the back yard. Her husband told her about the request. They embraced and cried together in that moment of reassurance.

It seems Jackson’s two brothers who are speaking today are on the autism spectrum. One is back briefly from his mission in Brazil. Their words are serious, enunciated clearly, and very loving. Jackson’s passing leaves a large hole in their lives.

Jackson’s parents are speaking. They have so much strength.  They talk of angels. Jackson’s heart had no boundaries. He was fun and adventurous. He loved the outdoors and his family. They know they will see him again. Families are forever.

A funeral is an interesting spiritual experience. It fosters connections, strengthens family bonds, increases knowledge and understanding of those who have passed, and stirs our own reflection of life and how we have lived so far. Jackson was a stranger to me but has a spirit I can relate to. I love the outdoors and wish I would have been able to explore and have more adventures camping and hiking like Jackson.

What a beautiful tribute from a family about a young life lived to the fullest.

It is raining now as the family heads to the cemetery, Jackson’s final resting place. The weather seems fitting for the feelings of sadness that accompany a day such as this. I hope his family will take comfort in the memory of seeing so many friends and loved ones who filled the chapel today in loving support.