New Salem

Ann is buried in what is commonly known as Campground Cemetery on the north side of Evansville.

Its real name is New Salem, which is a common name for cemeteries because Salem means Peace. Jerusalem can be translated New Salem — the city of peace. That’s interesting since Jerusalem has been destroyed twice, besieged 23 times, attacked 52 times, and captured and recaptured 44 times.

…so much for the word study and the history lesson.

It’s a beautiful spot that reminds me of the cemeteries in rural western Kentucky where my parents grew up. Ann never talked about where she wanted to be buried. It was part of her decision to never give up on the possibility that God might intervene. She never gave up or gave in. We simply never talked about dying. As I’ve said before, this was Ann’s choice. It’s not for everyone. Some people need to prepare for death and say their goodbyes.

The kids and I visited two other cemeteries before we decided on this one. We are very happy with the choice and think Ann would be too.

I took this picture on the morning of Meredith’s wedding day.

Meredith and her friends created all the floral arrangements for the wedding. As they put together their own bouquets, they prepared one for Ann and placed it on her grave.

Meredith and I were alone in the car on the way to the cemetery. It was a very special ride, the last one in which I was “the man” in her life. I will never forget it. I told Meredith I wanted to say a few words over the grave, but I didn’t think I could do it without getting emotional. Meredith took over (this won’t surprise anyone who knows her). Without preparation or practice, Meredith movingly shared how much Ann shaped her life and her wedding.

As Meredith prayed, a large group of unseen birds broke into song. I didn’t notice it at the time, but my friend, Jane, whose spiritual antenna is much more finely tuned than mine, pointed it out as we left.

I actually like cemeteries. Not everyone does. Only Ann’s remains are there of course, but for me, cemeteries can be a portal (don’t take this too literally) to the eternal.