We had a remembrance ceremony for Ari on December 5th, 2006. A small group, including my mom and two sisters, Brian's mom and sister, our three midwives, and several close friends, gathered in the early morning chill in a place called Moose Creek. We gathered in a circle around a sage fire each holding a small pink candle. The creek provided a calming background noise, as I started the ceremony with some words for Ari. My mom spoke next, followed by my sister, who wrote down her words:
"Sweet Ari: You have blessed our family and graced our lives. Your peace and its purity are truths kissed to our cores. As you embark on your journey, rest assured you come from great strength and infinite love. Look behind you- you will hear us smile. Look to your left and to your right- you will feel your mother and father's hearts. Look ahead and you will see your path is lit and the journey bright."
Others shared their prayers and our close friend Molly sang. Molly is a soulful woman with a soulful voice. I don't remember what the song was or any of the words- but the feeling was unforgettable. Her notes sifted into our bodies and lifted us up. I focused on the soft line between the forested hills and the cloudy winter sky. My hands shook from the cold and my chin quivered on the brink of tears. But Molly sang with power and calm, unwavering and steady, holding us all there together.
Still others added to our ceremony and Brian concluded. He and I went on a short walk through the woods and headed home for some quiet time. It was said later by more than one, that the smoke from the fire blew in the direction of whoever was speaking, slowly shifting around the circle. True or not, we all felt Ari there and she felt us too, I know.
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