Memorial wall pays tribute to beloved family, friends

As I wandered through "muscle cars" of my past, mixed with vintage classics, and well-loved roadsters, I drifted over to the quiet of The Healing Garden at Bonner General Hospital.

Within the distance of one mere block, I was transported from crowds of appreciative people and rows of hot rods to the natural peacefulness of the "garden." Somehow, the act of remembering was ignited in both places — just a little differently.

As I sat on one of the benches overlooking Sand Creek, I could hear the faint tunes of '50s rock 'n' roll blending with the more immediate sounds of flowing water and chirping birds. It was the "divine dichotomy" at its very best.

With this "blast from the past" came a flood of memories that gave you a momentary excuse to pause and reflect about people you have loved and lost. Those few decades peeled away in the "blink of a moment."

Many people find peace and solace when they can see their loved one's name beautifully acknowledged in a public setting. To commemorate the upcoming Memorial Day weekend, work started on the memorial wall in The Healing Garden.

To preserve the garden's natural architecture, the memorial wall will incorporate the Scottish cairn concept of "guiding the way" using large vertical pieces of slate, forming a three-part natural screen design. The wall will be flanked on each side with a stacked stone cairn design.

For a minimum donation of $100, a loved one's name will be permanently acknowledged on plates that will be applied on either side of the sculpture.

The memorial wall will be a place that celebrates life, while quietly honoring those we have loved and lost.

The Healing Garden has been described as a place of "spiritual solace" — designed as a tranquil retreat for those facing times of challenge and crisis as well as a place to honor those who have passed before.

It's a place of tranquility in the midst of a busy medical environment.

You can stroll the grounds surrounded by the beauty of nature, sit on a rock as you listen to the rushing sounds of the waterfall, or find yourself embraced by the comfort of the chapel and the light of the eternal flame.

Every element in the "garden" blends and enhances the beauty which nature has provided.

Fossilized leaves are imprinted on paved pathways and interesting tree trunks provide a natural texture amidst the various hues of greens. The garden has very few straight lines-most elements incorporating flowing and curved lines as in nature. The walls and other features encircle the area to lend privacy, but are also open and inviting.

Every flower, shrub and tree were planted with love and with the anticipation of others enjoying their beauty.

The Healing Garden memorial area will be in place by the Memorial Day weekend. If you would like more information about placing a loved one's name in our memorial area, you can call Bonner Community Hospice at 265-1179. Memorial donation cards are available in the chapel, the Hospice office, and the hospital switchboard area.

The Healing Garden will give you a sense of belonging — that you are in the right place at the right time. It's a gentle reminder that we are all a part of nature and the cycle of life. The Healing Garden was built by the community — for the community.