Through cloud and sunshine

On By John Bender

POST 7/2026 CARBIS BAY UK . . . The words, “Through cloud and sunshine” convey what we are experiencing in our stay in Cornwall. Today we sang that phrase as part of the funeral service for dear friend Margaret, who died 23 April. We chatted with Margaret a week earlier at fellowship time at St Anta & All Saints Church. She had a stroke and died in hospital.

At the funeral service Father Gorran Chapman said the large presence of four generations showed the wide reach 91-year-old Margaret had with family, friends and community. She chose the scriptures, hymns, and instrumental music for the service, Father Gorran said. A granddaughter shared a moving tribute of Margaret’s faith and life.

David Tremelling played Nunc Dimittis and Easter Hymn from Gavalleria Rusticana by Peter Mascagni as we left.

Following interment art Longstone Cemetery attendees gathered at Becks Restaurant for light refreshments and to share memories. Welcoming, hospitable, open-hearted, sense of fun, these are only a few words that describe our relationship with Margaret over the past 18 years. Rest in peace, dear friend.

“Through cloud and sunshine, O abide with me. / I fear no foe with Thee at hand to bless; / Ills have no weight, and tears no bitterness. / Where is death’s sting? Where, grave, thy victory? / I triumph still, if Thou abide with me.”

Gallery

South West Coast Coast Path enroute to Godrevy Lighthouse.

With niece Rachel walking through a steep valley flanked by garlic in bloom, for lunch at Tresillian’s Wheel Inn Pub.
Fewer than usual seals (clustered on the beach) at Mutton Cove. Thirty percent of the pod of seals have names, a ranger said.
The Barn/Square Dance at the home of Noel and Lynne evoked hysterics and applause as caller Keith kept us on our toes. Lynne on the left laughs with Marty and Rachel. Surprisingly, Eventually I got into the swing of things, especially on the promenade. The event was a fundraiser for the Little Lights nursery at St Anta & All Saints Church. The dance included a potluck meal, often called Bring-and-share.
We were glad to share some of our favorite walks with Dee and Carol who came from our hometown Goshen, Indiana.
Botallack Mine Crowns engine houses on the Tin Coast. “In the far west of Cornwall, men dug deep, not just underground but under the sea. They streamed for tin along valleys, tunnelled for copper on headlands, and at Gape Cornwall, Botallack and Levant they built mine engine houses on the very edge of rugged cliffs. Today this coast is a cultural landscape of World Heritage status, endowed with a stark, wild beauty.” (National Trust Booklet) Women and children were part of the hard work of processing the ore.

Window description available on the website of St Anta & All Saints Church.

At Trewidden Garden, near Penzance. Blustery but bright. Saw extensive January storm damage; delighted in spring blooms and blossoms–and lunch at a picnic table.

Margaret’s husband, Tim, who is unwell, walked his fingers along the table where he sat at Becks and said, “Keep walking.” We are so grateful for the many ways Margaret and Tim shared their lives with us. I conclude with a Bible verse I learned long ago in youth group: “In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” Proverbs 3:6

Through cloud and sunshine, peace.

-John

6 thoughts on “Through cloud and sunshine”

  2. kayemeadows's avatar kayemeadows

    Through sunshine and cloud, we keep moving-sometimes bright, sometimes unsure, but always forward. The warmth reminds us what’s possible, the shadows remind us to notice it. Nice to see Rachel visiting.

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  3. Marlene Kropf's avatar Marlene Kropf

    So sorry to hear of the loss of your friend Margaret, but grateful that you could be part of celebrating her home-going. Marlene

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