Sunday, February 8, 2009

Kenneth Fleming 1924-2009

Some days life can be beyond bizarre, can't it? My father took his last breath on this earth early this morning. I was at church and my sister Becky was not able to reach me until 1:30p.m. today. Here's where the bizarreness sets in. At 2:11 my sister Roma called from London to tell me that Eric won his first BAFTA. I didn't know whether to laugh or cry so i did both - a lot of both! I guess you could say that Eric and my father received rewards today. One on earth and one in heaven.

I feel a sense of relief for my dad and yet I know my mother is in such pain. And though the ground beneath me feels a bit unsteady at the moment, I know that the work of grief must begin. My mind isn't working too well but my heart holds all the stories & the memories. It will continue to hold these securely until I am ready to retrieve them at some point.

Dad was alone when he died which doesn't surprise me - I don't think he could have let go with his wife in the room. My dad is now in the fullness of God's light and love where he will be forever. But I think he might have stopped first at the Royal Opera House in London to cheer along with my sister when Eric won.

I love you dad.


14 comments:

Anonymous said...

Peace to wrap around the pain, friend. Love you, donna

Anonymous said...

Roberta,
I am sad and happy for you! I get it. I had such a mixture of feelings as these when my grandma died (24 yrs. ago yesterday) who was the love of my life. Then when my dad died 14 yrs. ago it was the same.

Bob and I are both thrilled for your brother-in-law. I will write more and also let the gals know who are the praying group--from St. Andy's. Did I tell you that Sr.C.I. is starting chemo for cancer?

Blessings to you and your family this day. I am blessed to have been a part of your journey these past years.
Much love,
Monica

Margaret D. McGee said...

Joy and sorrow ... twins of the heart. Love to you and all your family. -- Margaret

Anonymous said...

Roberta~
Your Dad must have been a wondreful man. Afterall you are a very big part of him,amazing!
You are loved my friend~
Mary

Anonymous said...

A very sweet, and tender early memorial for your Dad, Roberta! I feel honored to be included in the joy and sorrow of the events today and your feelings in the midst.

Much love,
Cheryl

Unknown said...

Prayers and blessings to you and your family.

Erin said...

Peace and comfort be with you and may your father rest in peace and rise in glory.

Jayne said...

((((Roberta))))
May peace be with you and the warmth of God's love surround your heart, and may your mom find the strength she needs as well. I will be thinking of you and praying for you and your family. XOXO

Anonymous said...

WHAT A BEAUTIFUL MEMORIAL TO SHARE WITH ALL OF US ROBERTA. THANK YOU.

Dr. Laura Marie Grimes said...

I am so sorry to hear of your loss, Roberta. Your dad sounds like a wonderful man who was much loved and will be very missed, even as you envision him fully free and rejoicing in God's light.

Ellie Finlay said...

You have my deepest sympathy, Roberta.

May your dear father be received into the arms of mercy and bliss.

And may you be comforted.

Love,
Ellie

Ellie Finlay said...

You have my deepest sympathy, Roberta.

May your dear father be received into the arms of mercy and bliss.

And may you be comforted.

Love,
Ellie

Ruth Hull Chatlien said...

I'm sorry I am so late to this. I understand the relief at letting your dad go; I felt the same when my father passed.

You're in my thoughts.

Treehugger said...

Your words are a telling reflection of your love for this special human being....between each word is reflected something of the influence he was (& still is) on you... You & all your family are in my prayers, as the grief settles on your hearts...as well as the rejoicing that he is in the Presence of His Creator.

I like the photo you posted, Roberta....he has a nice face. Honest. Friendly.

May God give you His peace, that passes all understanding...