My father, my Papa Jean passed away this morning at 5:ooam eastern time. He went gently, and with dignity-- just as he had led his life. There are not words that I can string together to convey the love and respect that I have for him. He was from such a different time and place both generationally and geographically. He taught me humility and perserverance and the deep respect for my cultural roots. The writing below is the one request he asked of me;
In My Time of Dyin’
(for Papa Jean)
(b. November 29th, 1921– d. April 22nd, 2010)
In my time of dyin’
don’t want nobody to mourn.
All I want for you to do
Is take my body home.
So I can die easy, yeah...yeah...yeah...
so I can die easy, yeah...yeah...yeah...
(African-American Spiritual)
Papa said that when he died
he wanted to be cremated.
He was adamant about this request.
Entrusting me, to carry this out
he asked that his ashes
be spread over his parents’ grave
in Rives, Isere, France –
the hamlet where he was born.
I told him plain– I would.
Papa also said he would prefer
if we did not mourn his death;
for he had, had an abundant life.
In his provincial humility
he asked only that we enjoy
"a good bistro", and savour
a memorable meal in his honour;
(great French chefs think this way)...
...Jesus gonna make it
to my dyin’ bed.
And if these wings should fail me Lord
won’t you meet me with another pair.
So I can die easy, yeah... yeah... yeah...
so I can die easy, yeah...yeah...yeah...
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This is truly beautiful and simple just like Pepe. I know he is gone physically but spiritually he will always be with us. He would be so proud and honored to know you have wrote this for him. It really shows his humble and simplistic way of life, which we all admired him for. We will all truly miss him and never forget all the happy memories. I say tonight we all have a nice glass of Merlot and toast to the life of an amazing man. Love & miss you.
ReplyDeleteSo sorry to hear about the passing of your father. My grandparents, Henry and Sarah Glaser took your parents, Pauline and Jean, under their wings back in the early 60s. I recall meeting them several times (I even think I babysat you and your brother once when you visisted Miami). Death is never easy and the loss follows you wherever you go, but a piece of your father is with you always in your heart. Bless you and your family.
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