The town gets in to the show as well. Glittery streamers show up everywhere....on stop signs, on bridge railings, everywhere. Cars and trucks have messages written on them and the flower stores become overly busy making all the mums for the boys and girls to wear. Bonfires and pep rallies fuel the spirit of victory and by the time the game comes around, the fans are all pumped up in a feverish excitement. But most people know, the game is only part of the night, the half-time events are what pack the stands where elbow room becomes scarce.
Then the moment comes, each girl is announced and her accomplishments as a high school student are read over the loud speaker. Her parents are recognized and everyone cheers for their favorite. As she is escorted down the field by her perfect match, she tries not to step on her dress or trip. Each finds their designated spot and the drum roll begins.....this year's homecoming queen is...........................................!
What a great day for that winner! She receives her crown and roses then rides around the track on the newest and coolest convertible available and all the little girls dream of the day they can be the Queen. After the announcement, the excitement dies down, the stadium thins out and the game goes back to being the main event.
We celebrated a homegoing today. Much like the high school event, those who would be part of the event were chosen. The escorts were chosen, but they would only escort one today. The clothing was picked carefully and the mood was set. Everyone thought she looked so good. Many people became involved in decorating. Flowers and plants were wall to wall and candles were lit. Programs were printed and emotions were running high. There was hardly any elbow room and some even had to sit a row or two back from the rest of the family. As each member of the party walked two by two down the isle and found their spot, all eyes were on them. But soon the crowd was silenced and all waited to hear the announcer speak. "Today we come to honor the life and memory of .........." The details of a life of 90 years were read to those who came to be witness to the final event of her life.
The game of life stopped for a little bit today to celebrate it's new Queen. She won her race and found her place. I would like to imagine that she is riding around on her perfect convertible and waving at all her friends on the sidelines. As those from the surrounding areas cheer her on and call her name so that she knows they are there and waiting to welcome her home. She is smiling and waving, excited to finally have made it to the end of this journey and to be wearing her crown. She has won and found victory!
Tears of joy, tears of sorrow, all blended with a celebration of a lifetime. For many of us today was a day of sadness, we loss something important to us, we had to let go of some dreams, but for one lucky lady, she is celebrating the beginning of a new life and new walk with those who have gone before her. One day we can celebrate again with her and walk the streets of gold, but as for today......
...........we celebrated her homegoing.
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