In our lived lives, family comes in different shapes and sizes and constellations.

It is in this variety—this diversity—that our lives are made fuller and our individual selves made more whole.

It is in this variety, it is in this diversity, that we look back to the ancestors, recognizing no monolith, but instead a rich texture that informs the foundation beneath us.

It is in this variety, it is in this diversity, that we perceive forward to the future, choosing to be good ancestors ourselves rather than dutiful descendants.

If we live our lives in recognition of this truth, there is no reason to act as if this is not true in death.

Let us live into the truth so many of us lean on in times of loss: that love lives on even in death.

As this is the truth of this family in life, so is it true for this family in mourning, giving free reign to all who willingly offer themselves as voice and embodiment of Abundant Love.

So may it be true for all.