Sometimes, sitting quietly on a bench is the best way to speak to those we’ve lost. In the stillness, their memory becomes a gentle breeze, comforting our hearts with whispers of love.
I dedicated a bench to Darcy in a London park, one we’ve been to many times especially on Summer days when we stopped for a gelato. I wanted a place to sit and remember her. Especially today … the day we met 13 years ago.
16 May, 2011 – the day etched in my memory, vivid and cherished from the moment Darcy bounded into the flat, and began exploring every nook and cranny, while I stood shell-shocked, still holding the door ajar while she emerged from the bedroom. Each year, I mark this day with gratitude, for little did I know then the immense impact she would have on my world.
A bench has always been a part of our many walks. Darcy, George and I would often sit on a park bench watching people and dogs go by. While I sat and reflected, they were scanning the horizon for squirrels. As soon as they spotted one, they would dash off. Thankfully, the squirrels were always faster than they were! Unsuccessful, they would come back to the bench and continued to sit with me.
On 20 January, 2022, we found one of the 25 After Life bench commissioned by Netflix. It was at Ravenscourt Park. It was to be our last walk and chat in the park. That evening she lost the use of her back legs and crossed over two days later.
And that is why I decided we will have our own bench. There is no grave where we can visit and place flowers. So instead, this became a place for us to sit, reflect and to give thanks for the memories. A place for our anniversaries.
Benches are a place to sit, relax, and engage in conversations. Or a peaceful setting for solitude and contemplation, to unwind and take in the surroundings. Unlike individual chairs, benches encourage people to share the seating space, promoting a sense of togetherness. They also symbolise rest and respite
Thank you to all who have come by to sit for awhile at Darcy’s bench at St. Luke’s Garden.
4 Responses
Wish we lived nearer to London (in Manchester) so we could sit on Darcy’s bench and remember her too. She was so gorgeous and so like our Archie who’s 12 on 29 May. Dread the day when he passes!
When you are next in London, please come and visit and stay awhile.
May, George, and Lulu — My family of Ken, Gina, and Zoey are remembering Miss Darcy from all the wonderful posts and pictures you have sent over the past. She is never far from our minds and we love and miss her. Jill
Thank you, Jill. Thank you for thinking of us. x