My Father and a Somewhat-Corroded Cross

My wife told me, today, that our #2 daughter and son-in-law saw something new when they identified my father's body today.

Not 'new' so much as 'new to them.' The cross he wore on a chain around his neck was old enough to be corroded, although you could still make out the Miraculous Medal (AKA Medal of the Immaculate Conception) on the back. It probably had the sort of 'call a priest' words, too, that #2 daughter's has: but like I said, it was corroded.

I know: it's just a piece of metal, quite a number of non-Catholics wear a Miraculous Medal, and I don't. (I have, however, been wearing a chaplet - crucifix and all - around my neck since Lent. That's another story.)

Sure: it's just a bit of metal. But I rather like the symbolism involved.

Related posts:

• "Rambling on About Death, Resurrection, Burial and Cremation"
  (September 25, 2009)
• "Death, Dying, Dignity, Intravenous Tubes and Catholic Teachings"
  (September 22, 2009)
• "Medical Procedures, Imminent Death, Decisions, and Catholic Teachings"
  (May 21, 2009)