About five years ago, I went with my mother to the funeral of her grandmother. I knew I would see my extended family there, my aunts and uncles as well as my grandparents. But before that day I had never seriously thought about even more extended family that I had. My great-grandmother who had passed away had three children, one of whom was my grandmother. At the funeral I saw the other two siblings and their families. Most of these relatives I met for the first time on that day. On that day I realized my family was much bigger than I had ever before imagined. My perspective on the family organization changed dramatically after that lovely funeral service.
Since that day I have seen these extended family members several times in reunions and events, including an art exhibit open house I attended tonight. Whenever I see these relatives and talk with them, I am reminded that I am part of a tremendous family unit made up of many smaller families. I appreciate my relatives and I cherish the opportunities I have to be with them.
I am grateful for my great-grandmother's funeral because that event led to many wonderful family associations that I didn't enjoy before. I'm sure my great-grandmother wouldn't have it any other way because the moment she passed from this life was a reflection of what mattered most to her: she lay on her bed at home, surrounded by her family.
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