On 12th April 2014 my brother, four years my junior, died suddenly and unexpectedly.
This very apt piece was read out at his funeral:
Not, how did he die, but how did he live?
Not, what did he gain, but what did he give?
These are the units to measure the worth
Of a man as a man, regardless of birth.
Not what was his church, nor what was his creed?
But had he befriended those really in need?
Was he ever ready, with a word of good cheer,
To bring back a smile, to banish a tear?
Not what did the sketch in the newspaper say,
But how many were sorry when he passed away?
Anon
This last rose of autumn, decaying on its stem was in the garden at the Funeral Home. It symbolises a lot for me.
ordinarygoodness 
Lynley, how very sad to lose your brother so suddenly and without warning. My thoughts are with you, and I hope you are able to feel love wrapping around you as you grieve.
I have just put up a blog post about remembering our dead ones at Last Light/Kiwi Halloween. We had a special ceremony last night (a day early) and 140 departed souls were remembered by those present. Today is our southern hemisphere day of the dead, so what a fitting time for your sad post.
Thank you Juliet for your kind words and thoughts. We have all felt the love, kindness and generosity from so many people.
A beautiful image, mixing the lived and the living and the messy bits, too; nothing perfect but beautiful all the same. And a verse that is apt for us all to consider as we go about our lives. So glad to have spoken to you this morning. 🙂
Your call today was very welcome. Blog friends are wonderful friends even though we may not have met in person.
Thank you for your insightful comment.
🙂
Dear OG, May you find comfort in happy memories and the healing green of nature. My only brother died (also suddenly and unexpectedly) at this time of year 21 years ago, and he has been very much in my thoughts this autumn. Wishing you strength and support at this sad time.
Hello Ruth. Thank for sharing about your brother and offering me your kind words and wishes.
It is good to hear from you. I had noticed that you had gone very quiet on your normally busy blog. I hope you are resting and recuperating your energies.
Dear OG, My energy has been low lately, and blogging’s slipped down the list of priorities but I hope to be back soon.
Kia kaha!
A moving post and a very evocative photo. Loving thoughts.
Thank you Marian for your comment and supportive presence.
A beautiful memorial. I am sad for your loss
Thank you for your kind comment.
Oh Lyn, I am so sorry to hear this. Sending you my kindest wishes.
Thanks Jo. People are being very kind to us:-)
My sincere sympathies and condolences to you Lynley. I can only imagine how you have been feeling. Warmest hugs.
Thank you so much for your kind wishes.