Monday Mission

1. Since we've covered the standard "where do you go when you die" question, let's get a little deeper. When you do die, would you like to be able to watch your funeral? I don't thinks so, I'm an extremely emotional person and would be too upset to see the people I love suffering.

2. Catholics must have the longest funeral services ever. I think there is a lot to be said for the traditions that they keep, but it was just so depressing. I'd like my funeral to be much more upbeat, like those I've seen in New Orleans. What type of funeral would you plan for yourself? Traditional Catholic. I was raised with a very strong sence of religion.

3. As a child, when I was angry sometimes I would wish that a parent or teacher would die. Thank goodness wishes like those are never granted. I think it probably takes the loss of someone important before you learn the value of life. When did you first realize that life was so fragile? I guess I always knew, but it hit me hard when my mom died 9 years ago. Totally healthy at 48 one day woke up with a lump on her neck and a few days later a doctor was telling me she had cancer and there was nothing they could do. She stayed with us for 8 months and then I knew... the only requirement for death, is to be alive.

4. When we said our final respects to Grandma H. today, I though about her impact on the world. No, she didn't cure cancer or make sweeping changes to society. But she did leave a legacy of four sons and a daughter, who in turn have children and grandchildren. And maybe that was her purpose, to launch future generations that will accomplish great things. Some of us are here to make a huge splash in the pond of life, others are here to direct the ripples in the water. Of the people you've known personally who have passed away, what sort of legacy, impact, mark or achievement did they leave behind? They all left me wonderful gifts that I remember and experience every day of my life.

5. One thing that struck me at the funeral, was that there were so many men were dressed in casual clothes. I was brought up to believe that men should always wear a suit to a funeral, as a show of respect. Maybe these men were never taught that. Maybe they just don't own suits. Maybe that I am just old fashioned and not hip to the times. Do you think there is an "appropriate" way to dress for attending a funeral? Or is it even important? It is very important. There is a time and a place for everything, and although our manner of dress speaks to our freedom as individuals, there are times when "old fashioned" values need to be upheld.

6. Grandma H. was far enough along in life to have been able to plan ahead for her funeral, even down to the tiny details such as song selections. It was nice to finally attend a funeral where they didn't play "Amazing Grace!" My choices would be "Ode to Joy" and "I'll Fly Away." What are some of the more memorable songs you've heard played at funerals? Can't think of any. But I must explain, I have not attended many funerals in my life.

7. I've been craving some home-made pickles for years now. Not just any, but the kind my dear Great Grandmother made. It's been over 20 years since she died, but I can still remember just how her dill pickles taste. No one in the family has even attempted to make them since. Today at the funeral I overheard someone wishing that they had asked Grandma H. for her home-made noodle recipe but now it was too late. Do you have any favorite foods that only one relative made, and the recipe died with them? Oh, yeah. My grandma made the most exquisit fruit preserves... my favorite was her peaches in syrup. Also one traditional Colombian soup that I know I will never enjoy again. I really wish I had learned to make it. ~ Malaya un dulce de durazno, y una mazamorra bogotana....mmmm ~

BONUS: Is it true, all of those things that they say about you? Most things but not all. For some reason people allways think I am a very motivated person, and I really am not.

Today's Comment Question: Do you like pickles? If so, what kind? I do, mildly seasoned pickles are great. Also sweet pickles.