On Friday, just past noon, my grandmother passed peacefully from this world.
On Saturday, James and I went home to spend time grieving and celebrating with my family. Saturday and Sunday were appropriately chilly, rainy, and misty and we all huddled inside, taking comfort in each other, our conversations and memories, and good food and drink.
On Monday, the sun finally came out and we headed to my first running haunt, Queeny Park. It felt good to be there, running those familiar paths, letting my mind completely go, letting my feet carry us along the five mile circuit. James knew talking was not necessary and we ran without stopping, lightly and nimbly.
On Tuesday, we gathered to bid our final farewells, my father opening the funeral mass with this beautiful introduction:
My name is Mike Macauley and it is an honor to welcome you to this celebration of both life and of love.
Several weeks ago, my wife Janet and my daughters Erin & Emily participated in and completed the St. Louis Half Marathon. The race was difficult at times, especially toward the end, but they completed the race and crossed the finish line with hands joined and raised high because it was an endeavor worth celebrating.
Today we recognize another race well run. Mom completed life's race in grand fashion and we now celebrate her victory. Throughout her race mom exhibited great determination. Through it all she was at many times graceful, though when necessary she was also gritty, especially when the running was most difficult. But mostly, she swept many others along with her in a wave of love, tender care, and dedicated friendship.
And so, therefore, we wish to thank you for being with her as she ran and we thank you for being here, at the finish line, to honor her victory and to send her off with the recognition that a true champion deserves.
Miles 195-199: 48 minutes joyously meditating on family, home, and love.
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