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| Picture taken at the funeral 2026 |
One of our relatives informed us that Uncle Daeng had passed away.
The news brought a mixture of sadness and reflection on my side. Uncle Daeng was not just a distant relative, he was someone who had been close to our family for many years. Because of his prolonged illness, Nittie and I had opportunities to bless him.
As we gathered with the family, we participated in the local funeral customs. In Thai culture, one part of the ceremony involves pouring water over the hands of the deceased before the body is placed inside the coffin. Uncle Daeng's coffin was made of plywood, as cremation is the common practice here, and afterward the ashes are often scattered in the sea.
After we finished pouring water on his hands, we carefully lifted his body with a white piece of cloth and placed him inside the coffin. His hands were placed together in front of him, holding a lotus flower. Family members also placed a candle and some money with him. According to local beliefs, the deceased may have a long journey ahead and will need light and money along the way. Mystery.....
As I stood there, looking at Uncle Daeng, I could clearly see his hands, his face, and every feature that had once been so familiar to me. He looked so real, as though he were simply sleeping.
Yet one reality was undonable:
the Spirit that once animated his body was no longer there.
That moment reminded me of the truth, that we are more than flesh and bones. The Father Almighty created us as living beings, He breathed his Spirit in us so could have life and this Spirit leaves from our body, we are lifeless, when this life departs, we are reminded of our mortality and our need for Him.
Funerals have a way of slowing us down and causing us to reflect on what truly matters.
Our possessions...
achievements...
savings....
and earthly pursuits eventually fade away.
What remains are the relationships we have built,
the love we have shared,
and the impact we have had on others.
Our money can only prolong our lives, but we can't buy life. One day, we will leave behind all the things we have treasured. It is scarry to think this, but it is a reality.
But.....
Rather than filling me with fear, that thought reminds me to treasure every day the Father Almighty gives. It encourages me to love my family more deeply, serve others more faithfully, and live each day with gratitude.
This is my prayer:
I pray that our family, you and your family.....a longggggg life filled with good health, more love, and prosperity. But even more than long years, I pray that our lives will be meaningful, that we will walk closely with the Father Almighty and that when our time comes, we will be ready to meet Him.
Life is precious.
Life is short.
Every day is a gift.|
Let us cherish every moment.
Love while you still can.
Give while you still can.
For tomorrow is never promised,
but today is His gift.
May the Father Almighty comfort our family during this season of grief.
Rest in the eternal glory of our Eternal Father Almighty uncle Daeng.
I wrote this blog in 2021: Embracing Mortality: From Fear To Freedom that you might like to read more.
Blessings of health and abundance to you and family.