Page 78 - Dash Inspirations by Linda Ellis

out to shop the local stores in the area, gathering what he thought would best represent a truthful tribute to his cousin. All he could find in this small town was an American flag on a stick, a pack of cigarettes and a six- pack of beer (something they’d enjoyed together through the years). He located the small sandy, unmarked spot and began clearing the weeds and undergrowth from the area. After he’d creating a small clearing, he placed the American Flag firmly in the ground, popped open two cold beers setting one on top of the grave, and lit two cigarettes. (Though not a smoker himself, it was a habit his cousin knew well.)
Sitting there surrounded by an eerie silence, he spoke aloud words of forgiveness that emanated directly from his heart. He thanked his cousin for his combat service to his country. He didn’t feel the need to focus on the wrongdoings his cousin had performed against him, but instead offered sincere and honest compassion, understanding and absolution. Shedding a few regretful tears for not having forgiven him in life, he lifted his beer and toasted a final goodbye in tribute to his cousin as he visualized once again sharing a cold beer as they had in the past.
My husband left the graveyard that day with a lighter heart hoping and praying that his heartful words of love and forgiveness had somehow reached his one-time close friend.
Dash Inspirations by Linda Ellis www.LindaEllis.life
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