As an author, I have a pass to explore some pretty unusual things. From funeral homes to proper donut eating techniques. Seriously, I LOVE my job!
My latest research has sent me on a cemetery exploring kick for my next book. News on that soon, I hope! I’ve visited several cemeteries around my state recently. Thank goodness there are really no Covid restrictions for these locations.
Of course, I had to visit the Magnolia Cemetery in Charleston, SC. And all I can say is wow. This cemetery is one of the oldest in our state and the largest I have ever visited besides Arlington National Cemetery. I spent an entireafternoon exploring and didn’t see even a fourth of it. It was like the Labyrinth, it kept going and going and going… And some of the tombstones and mausoleums were downright strange. Check out this pyramid! And the death mask of the infant… Yes both are bizarre and eerie, but there are stories there and that’s what really piques my writer’s imagination.
I’ve spent hours paying respect to each stone I’ve paused before. They tell of impressively long lifelines to devastatingly brief ones Their silent stories reflect wars, plagues, tragedy… Victories, honors, celebrations…
These explorations have caused me to pause and reflect on my own life and question whether or not I’m making the most of my one and only legacy. What will my tombstone or obituary tell about me? Mainly, I want it to reflect a decent Christian woman who loved well. Who lived well, making the most of this gift of life. Yes, I fall short of this goal most days, but I will keep trying until the end of the dash date appears.
I encourage you to do the same. Is there a dream you’ve been putting off? I say get to it! Is there some unnecessary things in your life that’s weighing you down? I say get rid of it!
One of my most favorite Bible verses is John 10:10. I consider it my life verse actually.
“The thief comes only to kill and steal and destroy. I come that they may have life and have it more abundantly.”
Have you read my latest book, Under the Magnolias? It doesn't have a cemetery scene, but it does have a pretty unforgettable scene in the funeral home!!
