Yesterday was the 49th day since Rosie passed away. The 49th day is an important day in Japanese Buddhism. After death, until the 49th day, the dead person's spirit undergoes a number of tests to see whether it can enter heaven and then be reborn. So, if you believe all that, Rosie has been in limbo for a few weeks, and from today she can rest in peace.
Yesterday also marked a kind of line, as the end of the official grieving period. Over the next few weeks we will slowly clean up the house a little, and put Rosie's clothes and toys away for a while. We will use them again in the future if we are lucky enough to be blessed with another little boy or girl. Until that time, we do not see any need to keep everything on permanent display. Our house does not need to be a museum to Rosie's memory in order for us to pay our respects to her.
From today, Rosie is now 'officially' an angel, so we can take another small step forwards.
Info on the 49-day tradition.
Hi Gary,
After posting my request for an eartquake story, I read your very sad news about your daughter Rosie. Being a father myself, I can feel your pain. I feel so terribly sorry for you and your wife Megumi. You have my deepest sympathy and I wish you all the strength you need.
Posted by: Kjeld Duits at October 26, 2004 02:02 PMThanks Kjeld - as you can see, it has been a painful few months.
Posted by: Gary at October 26, 2004 05:51 PMDear Gary, very moved by your words & your attitude. Its also two years since I got married this week and my wife and I have a 8 week old baby boy so your words hit home. You have my sympathy but more you have my respect for your courage.
I came accross your website looking for a gift for my wife for the anniversary. How do you make this blog thing work so well!?
Jon