I didn’t know my mother-in-law Sandy for long…about 3 years. But, I know her daughter and granddaughters well. They give me a glimpse of her beauty and character.
I’ve been back to her graveside many times…starting about 2011. Something was drawing me back there. I’ve sat and talked with Sandy. It’s awkward at first. I didn’t know what I was doing. One time I sang her a song and cried. Other times I have updated her on her
beautitul grandchildren. I’ve also spent some time apologizing to Sandy. I could have been a much better son-in-law. So, I’ve offered that to her. I want to honor her more even now and share her story with my family.
My best memories of Sandy are…
- Her smile. She had avery big smile.
- Her laugh. She had a contagious laugh and Shawna has it too.
- She was a no-nonsense kind of person. She was not pretentious. What you see is what you get. I respect that. I see that in her granddaughters too.
- She was beautiful. I love the pictures we have of her today. And when I watch my own daughters I think of her. I imagine her coloring as a young girl, or going on a first date, or the day she fell in love with Ed. I watched Ed love her to the very end. And his love for her made Sandy even more beautiful. I remember those days. I wish I could go back and enjoy her more. I have hope to see her again. I know she is with Christ, which means she is in a better place than we are and in a better state.
Sandy, we love you. We remember you. We look forward to our reunion with our Savior and you!
I love the song Remember Me from the movie Coco. What a beautiful story that can touch our hearts in unique places. Everyone in the movie thought they knew the history about the great grandfather. But, they all were surprised and found new stories and images through a song.
I can’t sing it as well as the guy in the movie. But, I learned the chords and sang a version at Sandy’s graveside. Here’s the lyrics to the original followed by my verses for Sandy.
Remember Me
Remember me. Though I have to say goodbye. Remember me. Don’t let it make you cry. For even if I’m far away I hold you in my heart. I sing a secret song to you each night we are apart.
Remember me. Though I have to travel far. Remember me. Each time you hear a sad guitar. Know that I’m with you the only way that I can be. Until you’re in my arms again. Remember me.
Sandy’s Version
Remember me. And the love I have for you. Remember me. Deep in your heart you know it’s true. I’m in a place beyond the grave where hope will never die. I’m waiting for our last reunion here in paradise.
Remember me. Not just facts and history. Remember me. The best me your heart can see. I pray the grace of God will fill up all your memories. Until you see what I can see, Remember me.
Lord Jesus, we remember our sister Sandy, who was born again with you in your baptism. Grant that her life may recall to us your victory over death. May this be an occasion to review our own trust in the Father’s love. We give you thanks for Sandy and the legacy of her life. As she finds rest and refreshment in your presence, may we, with all who have died in the faith, find perfect fulfillment in your eternal and everlasting glory. Through Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.