Odd Day

Today I had a graveside 'service'. It was odd to me in that no words were spoken to address the attendees. About 15 friends and family gathered. Each seemed to spend time by the casket alone and all sat for a few moments as a group. Then they left. It seemed so empty to me. As a pastor I offered to say a prayer but the son said they wanted nothing. They grieved each independently together. I am open to many forms of good-bye saying but this one troubled me. No words of hope and comfort, no group sharing, no committal to cling to in the future. Maybe somehow that happened for them but it seemed distressing and hopeless to the outsider. I pray for each of them that they might find a spirit to assist and guide them as they deal with the loss of an important person in their lives.