Theresa

Bennett

How do we define the life of Theresa Bennett?

Should we begin at the end of January 1940,

where a ray of hope was born to Belva Pilgrim and Carl Seihnert

just as the world plunged into the uncertainty of a second world war

where we can lose ourselves

in the promise of the continuation of life that icy 30th day brought?

Do we catalogue those who preceded her in death?

mother, father, two brothers, a daughter

or those she left behind?

children and grandchildren and nieces and nephews

with multiple greats and non-blood inclusions scattered throughout?

Maybe we linger on Jack

the greatest love of her life who left her too soon

We could highlight how she raised an extended family on a waitress’ pay

supplemented with tips and prayers

and the grace of others who helped with this challenge along the way…

In the end I feel

we should dwell on each moment that lasted an eternity

that returns to us in a fraction of a second

memories:

birthday dinners

biscuits and gravy

handmade coleslaw

cruises and farmhouses

and one last game of Arizona…

that I can get behind

rest in peace

deal me in.

Ministry of comfort was lovingly entrusted to Southern Cremation and Burial Services of Murphysboro, Illinois.