My brother died in the beginning of the Pandemic. His facility was closed the day after he was admitted so I could never visit him and we could not have a funeral and wake. If we did, I would have recited the old and traditional Irish and Scottish poem and song — “Parting Glass”. I have heard this at a few funerals and wakes I attended. There is a part that says “Of all the harm that e’re I’ve done alas it was to none but me”– that really says it all about my brother. He was such a kind and gentle soul who would never hurt a fly. He was very special as the world is too full of people who harm others. He was a man of honor and integrity. This poem expresses the sorrow of parting and I know that Johnny would have not wanted me to be so full of sorrow for so long. It is easier said than done with such a brother.

I love this more modern rendition of this poem:
“ I ask you to remember me;
and when you sit and stories tell,
I’ll be with you and help recall;

So fill to me the parting glass,
God bless and joy be with you all”.

Happy Thanksgiving Johnny. I miss you but very grateful for the years we had together.