A Celebration of Life

My paternal grandmother always reminded me that I was a special child which means highly favored. The word special has varied meaning to me over the years; in the Bahamas when certain friends and family call me special it means silly. No I am not eccentric.

During Easter I stayed in a certain couple’s home,  there was serenity in the atmosphere of their home. Shortly afterward I felt compelled to contact the couple, I spoke to them on several occasions thereafter but never physically met them. Sadly the husband passed away and the funeral service was held on my birthday, a few days ago. Yes, on my birthday. My friends and family members were very vocal on whether or not I should attend a funeral on my birthday given their view that he was not family.

To me this was my family as he represented so many things. Father Thaddeus Pratt dedicated his life to the honor and glory of God and has been a loving father and husband. He was married for fifty one years which is a glorious example of love and devotion. I am sure that is something we wish to emulate; Mrs Florence Pratt  and I are in the same sister-hood. It was a sensible thing to do as it was a celebration of an extraordinary person’s life and co-incidentally mine.

There was a certain joy at his home going celebration. It reminded me of a feel for luxury; in terms of life’s accomplishments, achievements. It was a time to reflect, it gave me a challenge to carry on, it was a wake up call to do better and it reminded me to live life to the fullest and make the most of opportunities and time.  I am no stranger to funerals  after all, as my great grandfather died the day I was born, hence the reason why my grandmother calls me special.

This week marked another year of celebration. Are you taking note of the various accomplishments of your life? Are you truly grateful for even the minor endeavors of others?

Our Fathers

Father’s day is fast approaching and our thoughts are with the men in our lives. They are so easily taken for granted and misunderstood. The fathers, grandfathers and those who stand in the gap for non-biological children this coming Sunday let us celebrate and honor them.

The love of  a father

Plays a vital role

Prominent spaces occupies

Everyday he competently leads

Powerful leverages

Masterful situation

Foster of positive feelings

In an instant

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His love, generosity, playful nature

Is beautiful to see

Actions prompt followers – his children

Positive signals as he provides

He backed his children

A talent he nurtures

In a demanding life

Finely attuned

A father’s pride

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Poem Written by Brenda L. McCartney

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Mothering Sunday

Today mothers in Gibraltar, Nigeria, Republic of Ireland and the United Kingdom celebrate mother’s day.  At the same time,   the Anglican Province of the West Indies  observes  today as Mothering Sunday. The origin of Mothering Sunday dates back to the 16th century; on the fourth Sunday of Lent children would attend church with their mothers.  A special day was created for women who were live-in servants to affluent families. On Mothering Sunday these women were allowed to go home from their jobs as servants or maids. In many homes, the housekeeper or cook would help the maids prepare cakes and bouquets of flowers from the garden to be presented to their mother upon their return. I believe that all mothers everywhere deserve to be honoured and not just today. Thank you all of  the women who have mentored and influenced us in such special ways.

Incisive decisions beat

Eyes smile to the gentle rhythm

Tulip bosom expressive all season

Seraphic energy molds

those who spring from

and around you

Feathers of nurture

Spirit laps no cost

As your crescent shape cradles

We honor

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Poem by Brenda L. McCartney