When I was growing up, I watched a TV show called This is Your Life. It was an American reality documentary series broadcast on NBC radio from 1948 to 1952, and on NBC television from 1952 to 1961. It was originally hosted by its creator Ralph Edwards. During the program, the host surprised guests and then took them through a retrospective of their lives in front of an audience, including appearances by colleagues, friends, and family.
The program became a Wednesday night must see across the country. Several churches rescheduled their mid-week service so parishioners could tune in.
That format is similar to Ruth’s Celebration of Life today. Each member of our family has recorded a tribute to her to be shared in front of an audience. We opted for the format because we each know speaking in person will be a challenge. We want people to hear our story without straining to understand us through cracked voices. I thought after almost nine months I’d be able to speak about her without breaking down, but that’s not the case.
David, Elizabeth, Michael, Lindsay, Kate, Sutton, Brady, Eva and Young Jackson James each have a part. Each of us prepared our own words, and each of us, offers a unique point of view. We loved her for different reasons.
While Ralph surprised his honorees, Ruth surprised us with her sudden passing. That’s been a challenge for everyone.
I don’t think there’s one right way to honor someone. You do what you think is best for those still here. This is best for our family.
Hope all is well Bob, I remember talking about my Dad about 10 years after he passed and one of my employees said to me, “you know every time you mention your dad your eyes tear up.” It has gotten better over the years but it’s been 24 years since he passed and I still tear up at certain things and conversations. Miss you and see you when you get back.