Each day for 40 days this glass on the kitchen window sill will be refilled with fresh water.
I learned about this ritual from a neighbour who attended the Greek Orthodox church. When someone dies, the water is placed out for 40 days for the spirit of the loved one to come and drink.
It's a reminder of Bruce many times a day; it's a prolonged, private goodbye; it helps me mourn.
It brings to mind the biblical promise of the Christian god not to send another flood after the one that lasted 40 days and 40 nights. It's a reminder that there won't be another Bruce, either.
Lovely tradition, and one that I've not heard of. That Bruce was loved, wasn't he? Thank you for sharing this part of your journey (and his) with us.
ReplyDeleteWhat a healing tradition. thanks.
ReplyDeleteThats a very nice tradition. Hope you find some comfort and peace.
ReplyDeleteThat's a nice ritual...also, I know we've talked about this before...it allows the people who are grieving to grieve that little bit longer and give themselves time to heal. Instead of that "3 days and yer done" mentality that our culture insists upon.
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