Binghampton Cemetery

It has been over 17 years since Dottie Stephens left her earthly sojourn. Her son Rick hadn't been back to the Binghampton Cemetery since she had been laid to rest there. With family going different directions, this past Thanksgiving seemed to be a perfect opportunity to visit. As the days approached prior to the trip, Rick's mind began to be flooded with memories of his mom. Fond memories, especially those of Christmas, which Dottie loved. He shared a few of those memories with me like how much she enjoyed decorating the Christmas tree. He had this great idea of placing a little Christmas Tree at her grave. He wanted to decorate the tree with ornaments which would reflect who he is now and also his mom's love for the Christmas Season. It was family that made the Season sparkle for Dottie so Rick encouraged his siblings to share this experience with him and with her. He asked them to chose an ornament of meaning for each of them which he then hung on the tree in memory of their mom.

We arrived in Tucson early evening Thanksgiving Day. We planned to place the tree Friday morning but Rick was anxious to find his mom so we set out to locate Binghampton. We arrived, as if we being lead there, Rick jumped out of the pickup, holding his hand up to me gesturing he'd be right back. In the twilight with rain falling, I watched him take off running like he heard his mom calling him home.

The journey was spiritually and emotionally inspiring.
Binghamption is a hallowed place.

Submitted by Julie Frehner/Stephens

"There are no graves here. These mountains and plains are a cradle and a stepping-stone. Whenever you pass by the field where you have laid your ancestors look well there-upon, and you shall see yourselves and your children dancing hand in hand. Verily you often make merry without knowing." Kahlil Gibran

Thank you Rick & Julie for sending in this touching experience. I thoroughly enjoyed it and know that others will as well.