Flo’s memorial gathering was tonight. It was the most perfect event I have ever attended for a dearly departed. There was no funeral, no wake. We had a party! The party was held at Brenda’s home (an extraordinary hostess) and it was the perfect setting for Flo’s gathering. Flo always loved Brenda’s parties because Brenda’s parties are always filled with joy, dancing, food and laughter. And tonight’s event was no exception.
I just sat there looking around at the mix of people present: her family and friends from almost every aspect of her life. We were of all ages, ethnicities and personalities. There was a lot of food and booze; music; photos and dancing! Flo would have loved it. A lot of Flo’s friends did not know her immediate and extended family, but we all got to know each other tonight. At one point Flo’s old boyfriend from 17 years ago was dancing with her teenaged niece with uproarious approval from us all!! Another high point was the entire party singing “Mister Big Stuff” at the top of our voices – even the teenagers – as we danced together! Flo would have LOVED this!
Flo’s niece Ara and nephew Darnell flew in from Maryland and North Carolina to put her things in order and they allowed this party which included her host of friends. They realized that Flo’s friends were as much her family as anyone. They did her credit and did us a huge favor. We all became a family by the night’s end.
Flo’s dear friend Rachel flew in from Miami and brought all of Flo’s photo albums from her Miami storage locker to the party. We all sat and looked at the pictures reminiscing about Flo and our good times together, the stash also included a great number of family photos which brought smiles from all sides of the party. Flo always documented everything with photographs and put them in albums.
She would have wanted us to be happy. She would have wanted us to eat and drink together. She would have wanted us to dance. The gathering was all that and it is for the love of Flo that we will all keep in touch. Friends were made tonight. Thank you Flo. You are still making people happy. We will miss you terribly.
Wow. This is what we all wish. A happy bittersweet sendoff. I know this was hard for you and in some ways it has helped me “seize the day”. I’ve taken the time to appreciate those I love and curse those I don’t. If you are gonna do it – do it big. Life is not a dress rehearsal.
I know right?
What a wonderful tribute to Flo an obviously very special lady! Creating new bonds among people through the life you lead, is the greatest impact a person can make on this planet. Isn’t it terrific that Flo’s friend’s and family are now one and her spirit will forever connect you. Just imagine the new friends she’s making now and the family that’s gone before her that’s enjoying the joyous reunion! God Bless Flo!
I know. she’s still making magic for all of us!