Struggling at Father's Funeral

On the day of a father's memorial service, preparations are underway as family members gather to honor his life. The narrator's brother practices his eulogy, while they arrange for 100 orders of service to be printed. Despite feeling composed, the arrival of firefighters in uniform triggers an emotional response, signaling the depth of the day's significance. Upon arriving at the cemetery, the family is met by four soldiers, representing the military honors due to the veteran. The father's ashes are contained in a wooden box that belonged to his father, a detail that had previously caused some logistical discussions with cemetery staff. The box is placed on a table in front of the family’s existing headstone, where the mother was buried 26 years prior, setting the stage for a poignant ceremony. As the service unfolds, the young soldiers salute the wooden box, while older soldiers fire rifle volleys in tribute. This moment proves to be particularly moving for the narrator, who finds themselves unexpectedly affected by the solemnity of the proceedings. The ceremony culminates in the presentation of an American flag, delivered with heartfelt words from a soldier on behalf of the nation, further deepening the emotional weight of the occasion. As the service concludes, the family prepares for a lunch, marking the end of a significant day. The father's ashes are placed atop the grave, symbolically sealing the farewell with a sense of closure and remembrance.