Weddings are a joyous occasion for many reasons, one of them being a time for relatives to reunite. I was recently at my cousin Casey's wedding in Florida and our relatives from my mother's side of the family (The Abreceas) flew from all over the United States - California, DC, Georgia, Virginia, and Illinois - to be part of the moment. The event was filled with much laughter, dancing, and opportunities to catch up.
It was also an opportunity for us to reflect on those who could not make it to the wedding. Some wedding guests couldn't make it because of the recent hurricane that cancelled many flights. Others couldn't make it because they live half-way around the world in the Philippines. Then, there were the ones that couldn't be with us because they had passed away before the wedding.
Those who couldn't celebrate with us weren't forgotten, though. Pictures and sentiments were exchanged over the internet to our loved ones who lived far away. Our relatives from Japan even called in via videochat to send their congratulations.
And those who were deceased weren't forgotten either - my cousin had a small table at the entrance of the reception where pictures of loved ones from both sides of the family were pictured, including our Grandpa Joe. I never met Grandpa Joe because he passed when my mother was really young, but his picture was always shown and he's always remembered by my family during special life events. Whether it's a birthday party, All Souls' Day, the Abrecea reunion every December 30th, or other family gatherings, Grandpa Joe is remembered in stories or pictures.
When it comes down to it, remembering is an act for the living - for us to grieve, cope, and find ways to grow around our loss. It is a way to carry on while carrying those we love with us in times of sorrow and in times of joy.
Everyone was present at my cousin's wedding - in person, in video, and in spirit.
