I got to attend Andrew's memorial service today. Mr. and Mrs. Hayes decided to have his body cremated, and they plan to divide up his ashes once they come home. They offered to let me have some since we were so close, and I agreed. I'll be going to pick it up on Wednesday afternoon.
It's still difficult to believe that he's gone, but the initial shock and sadness have started to wear off now. I think knowing that he's not in any pain and having some time to reflect on happy memories has really been helpful in taking away the sting. This journal has been helpful too.
I think having his ashes around will help take away some of the loneliness I still feel. I guess I'll have to just wait and see.
The memorial service was beautiful. Mr. and Mrs. Hayes did a remarkable job arranging the entire ceremony. It was a shame that it wasn't completely free of drama.
Apparently, two of Andrew's old friends were overheard spreading rumors about his death. They ended up getting promptly kicked out of the ceremony, which I can completely understand. We're here for Andrew, not to gossip.
Anyway, I have no clue what all they got caught saying specifically, but I'm glad a huge scene wasn't made over it. I just kind of happened to overhear Mr. Hayes asking them to leave. Other than that, the ceremony was a very pleasant one.
