07/05/2026
Yesterday, I had the privilege of officiating a celebration of life for a lovely gentleman who used to walk his dog on the same field where I walk mine.
His wife, (an octogenarian) who I now see almost daily whilst out with the dog, asked me to write and conduct the service because she felt more comfortable with someone she knew personally. It was such an honour to be asked.
I picked her up from her home and took her to the service, and as a mark of respect, a few of the regular dog walkers also came along to support her, which was genuinely touching to see. Afterwards, I took her to the venue for refreshments before later taking her home.
We were the last to leave, and as we walked back to the car, passing the children’s play park nearby, she suddenly said she’d love to go on the sideways rope swing.
So I said, “Well why not? Let’s do it.”
We put the sympathy cards, flowers, and even a box of sandwiches on the nearby picnic bench, popped our handbags on the floor, climbed onto the giant swing… and within seconds we were swinging and laughing.
In that moment, it just felt like the most perfect reminder that even in the middle of grief, there can still be laughter, connection, friendship, and little moments of joy. ❤️
