Random Lines

A beautiful summer's day
People cluster in the sun
Sombre dark mourning clothes
A slow procession into the cool interior
Of the Monastery on the hill.
An ornate gilded interior rising to a high dome.
Stained glass windows reflecting sunlight onto pews
Of mourners young and old.
White lilies on the coffin matching the white and gold priestly vestments
Organ music playing unfamiliar Hymns
The faithful intoning unfamiliar responses.
The sweet smell of incense hanging heavy on the air.
Communion received by some.
A last blessing and we are back in the sun.
A stately procession of cars follow the hearse to the graveside
Golden cords slide through the fingers of the men
Chosen to lower the coffin into the grave
So very deep and so very final
White and red roses lovingly thrown in by close family.

Precision cut sandwiches and refreshment
In a country hotel nearby
Where trees are bursting into leaf.
New beginnings
Life goes on.
Farewell Dorothy, my sister-in-law.