by “Blanche Belvidere”

Even though Christmas has come and gone, the spirit of the holiday season lingers in the air, especially with the new year still on the horizon.

Recently, I found myself at a wake, a solemn event that brought forth a wave of reflection and introspection.

As I stood in the long line, my thoughts drifted to the timeless holiday classic, “It’s a Wonderful Life.” This cherished film tells the poignant tale of George Bailey, an ordinary man whose life is profoundly impactful despite his constant feelings of unfulfillment. He navigates the challenges and struggles of everyday life, all the while believing that fortune has never smiled upon him.

As I navigated through the crowds of people waiting to pay their respects, I was reminded of the wake of my own father. It was similarly packed and continued long past closing time.

I have little recollection of the shock I felt when he suddenly passed away or even a time when I truly grieved. What stands out in my memory are all the people—many of whom I had never seen or even heard of before.

I heard numerous stories, such as, “Your father helped me get a car when I was down and out,” and “Your father quietly helped me in paying my bills when I was unemployed.” One young man shared how my father helped him cover some of his college tuition during a semester when he couldn’t afford it and didn’t want to drop out. I even heard stories from old, former mobsters who were incarcerated for most of their better years tell me how much he helped them get back on their feet when they had to integrate back into society.  He did not judge.

He was a man of unwavering integrity, a deeply grounded individual who held strong ties to his roots and the community around him. His actions were never driven by a desire for recognition or the expectation of repayment; instead, he operated from a place of pure altruism.

Life had not always favored him, presenting its fair share of challenges, but he faced them with resilience and grace. Despite his own struggles and the absence of the breaks that others often receive, he consistently found ways to extend a helping hand to those less fortunate. Through his selflessness and compassion, he instilled these values in me, shaping my understanding of kindness and community.

George Bailey was given an extraordinary gift to envision what life would have been like had he never existed. This profound perspective allowed him to recognize the numerous lives he touched through seemingly simple acts of kindness and generosity.

The film’s conclusion always resonates deeply with me; it beautifully illustrates how his community rallied around him, demonstrating just how much he was valued and adored. I often reflect on this connection, especially in terms of my own father. If he were observing from the great beyond, I know he would have witnessed a similar outpouring of love and appreciation.

After attending my father’s wake, I felt a powerful sense of connection and pride that I had never experienced before.

It became strikingly clear to me that the impact we have on others is far greater than we often realize. Every small gesture, every word of encouragement, and every moment of support might seem insignificant to us, but they can influence the lives of those around us. We must come to understand that our actions, no matter how minor they may appear, carry immense weight and significance in the grand tapestry of life. Each of these little things contributes to the greater good, reminding us that everything we do truly matters.

I hope that the loved ones left behind after the wake I attended recognize what a legacy their father/brother/ in-law left behind.  I saw it.  It doesn’t make it less sad – it’s still a great loss. But hold on to those stories told. It’s what keeps a person alive. And learn from it. Pay it forward.

Because it really is a wonderful life.