A quick stop at the Williamstown waterfront before the funeral
It was my Dad's funeral today and I amazed myself by delivering a speech and doing it pretty well. I never imagined that I had it in me not only to speak in front of so many people, but to speak publicly at such an emotional time.
I haven't done any public speaking since....well, probably since Year 12, and I'm not an outgoing type who loves being centre stage. But I did it! I even ad libbed a bit.
It was weird how calm I was leading up to it. I thought I would be wobbly-legged and all a-tremble, but I wasn't. I was determined to do it for my Dad and I did.
I felt elated after it was over - a combination of relief that it was out of the way and immense pride at doing it as well as I did. It's wonderful to discover strength you never knew you had.
And to have everyone tell me how well I did, that they were proud of me and that my Dad would be proud was the cherry on top.
It's been a sad day, but also a good day. Laughter through tears.
I am so sorry for your loss.
ReplyDeleteI know what you mean about funerals. They're so sad, but there's good stuff there too. It's nice to share all the happy/funny memories about the person. And it's also a time to get see family and friends you don't get to see so often.
I'm glad you were able to do your speech so well. I would have been very nervous as well.
My thoughts are with you and your family.
well done Jayne :)
ReplyDelete(is it weird to for someone that doesn't *know* you to be proud of you too???)
I'm so sorry about the loss of your Dad! You did a wonderful thing by getting up and speaking about him! And that you realized a strength which you didn't know you had ... well ... that says a lot about both you and your father! It's like you both gave each other a gift!
ReplyDeleteOh Jayne, so sorry to hear about the loss of your dad. I remember you saying a few months ago that he wasn't well, but hadn't heard anything since as we've been out of touch. It seems quite sudden and he can't have been very old.
ReplyDeleteI think you did so well being able to talk at the funeral without falling to pieces. I always admire ppl who can do that. *hugs*