When I heard or saw the expression, “set in stone,” I thought of a serious contract or a permanent date. I never thought about the origin of the term. “Set in stone,” something that is unchangeable, was simply an expression; I didn’t think the expression applied to me.
Today I learned that “set in stone” has a real meaning.
We placed the headstone on my husband’s grave today.* We had certain words engraved on the stone that describe who is was. There is now a real stone, with specific words, that describe my husband. “Set in stone” is real. I can’t apply “white-out” and erase the words. I can’t take a pen, and edit the words on the stone to say, “He’s still alive…go to this address.” I can’t press the “backspace” or “delete” keys to change the language.
The headstone and it’s words are permanent. It’s stark. It’s painful. Yet, it’s comforting. There is now a marker that tells us where his physical presence is.
May Herschel’s memory be for a blessing. May we emulate his humility so that we, too, are loved by all.
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*American date – May 7, 2009; Hebrew date – 23 Iyar 5770
May 7, 2010 at 3:25 PM
I can’t apply “white-out” and erase the words. I can’t take a pen, and edit the words on the stone to say, “He’s still alive…go to this address.”
Oh, how I can relate to these words… Even though my brain often wants to think my own husband may come back, that it was all a mistake, I know his fate is set in stone as well.
Beautiful words, Sherri. Very thoughtful and precise.
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May 7, 2010 at 6:11 PM
Beautifully done. It was thoughtful and spiritual.
May the sun shine brightly in your future. Your grief be set with the stone.
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May 11, 2010 at 11:28 PM
DEAR SHERRI, THIS IS MY NEW APPLE…AND I NEED LESSONS….MAY ALL YOUR MEMORIES SUSTAIN YOU, AND MAY YOU FIND HAPPINESS IN LIFE. YOUR GOOD DEEDS WILL KEEP YOU IN GOOD STEAD. I HOPE TO SEE YOU SOON. MY LOVE, JOYCE
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May 12, 2010 at 8:02 AM
Joyce – thanks for your encouragement. Congratulations on your new computer purchase. I wish we lived closer – I’ve begun providing one-on-one computer lessons, based upon the client’s needs. I hope you can find someone in your area who provides this service!
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May 13, 2010 at 11:05 AM
Thank you for sharing this with me. Your comments are beautiful and touching. May you be comforted by the wonderful memories of your life together.
Wishing you all the best and much success in your future.
You deserve it!
Sarah
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