1 Corinthians 15: 54,55,57. So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
EULOGY FOR GODERICK FRANCIS.
The pain and anguish are finally over. No more embarrassing moments to endure. At last it’s time to go home and sit around the throne of grace and compare notes with those who’ve gone before. Ah Friends, another one has succumbed in life’s prime, to that dreaded scourge of human existence; Cancer. When will we conquer it eh? With all the resources thrown at it, unfortunately, it’s still holding us at bay. And this Eulogy thing is happening a bit too often; twice in the past two months. Anyway G, we’ve come to both bury and praise you, for you were a good man, and good people are hard to find. You’ll be sadly missed for so many things; your outspoken, loyal, enthusiastic demeanour; the passion you brought to everything you did; your humour and your welcoming smile, along with your generous but stubborn nature. Before going any further though Bruh, let me sincerely apologize for not coming to see you during the latter part of your illness. The poor winter weather and our different schedules just never permitted it. However, I always enquired about you, and for certain sure, you were always in my prayers, hoping that the Lord would see fit to bestow a miracle of healing on you. But if that wasn’t in the script, then He’d at least allow you to see your first grandchild before he took you home. That wish He granted. Sorry you won’t be around to see her blossom, as I’m sure she will, but she’ll hear lots about you, for you left a rich legacy of stories. I know the family will find your absence strange and somewhat unsettling, but don’t worry, they’ll survive. They’re strong and will grieve appropriately, then move on, for they know you’re in a better place now, and mourning is only for a time. Rest assured you’ll never be forgotten, for you’ve touched too many hearts with your life. But Bruh, yuh remember when we were young! Hn,hn! Sorry sir. I can just hear you saying with your contrary self, that you’re still young. (smile) And you always were young at heart. Thankfully that’s the way I’ll remember you, since I never saw you during your illness. But seriously G, we spent some good times together yes, starting in the Perivale area; the parties and picnics, not forgetting the Carnival get-togethers in the basement of the new house. Ah Bruh, our families have really shared a lot and developed a strong bond since we first met twenty something years ago, I believe through our young daughters at school. It’s a friendship that’s never faltered, and I value it quite highly. Right now I consider you family, cause that’s what family really means, not simply blood relations, but also people who go through a lot of life together on good terms. Yuh know G, you’re one of those people whom I’ll remember fondly, when I’m old and grey, sitting in my rocking chair on a porch on some high hill, close to the Almighty, hopefully on Crusoe’s paradise isle. Ah mih brother, there’s so much more I can say, but space and time won’t allow me. Yuh know the families always figured we talked too much anyway. (smile) Now they’re going to certainly miss hearing your voice though. But that’s just the nature of the beast; we never appreciate something when we have it. I’ll close now Bruh, by simply saying; thanks for all the good memories we made. But all good things must end sometime, so until we meet again in the great beyond, I’ll wish you God speed…and save a space at your table for me. (smile) I won’t say bye, but rather, Hasta manana…till tomorrow. Much LOVE!…the body moves on…but the spirit lingers forever…
SCRIP-BITS 