Today I attended the memorial service for Brett Wood, and try as I might, was still moved to tears despite willing myself to "be strong for her...be strong for Elvie". For the first time ever, the wife of a fallen brother stood up and spoke of her thanks for the support of her family by defence personnel and Brett's mates. Until this moment, I thought I was pretty strong myself! But to stand in front of a crowd of soldiers and close family members and express your thanks in a voice that is screaming pain and sorrow, takes more guts and courage than I could ever muster in such a circumstance. I have been taught a valuable lesson today. No matter how far you think you are sinking in sorrow and despair, there is always enough courage inside your vulnerable exterior to stand up and do the right thing. I know Brett would have been immensely proud of his wife. She is a true inspiration.
I was given the honour to create the wreaths for this service, and the funeral on Friday. Here are a sample...Lest We Forget.
