Throughout the wake, I’ve heard the phrase “Pay my respects” uttered numerous times. No one ever respected Patrick, so I don’t get why they’re saying they do now. I’ve paid attention to exactly what this “paying respects” looks like. Everyone seems to be in on some secret at this wake that I don’t know about. People in the procession line have enacted the same ritual over and over. 1. Stand at the coffin. 2. Bow your head. 3. Kneel. 4. Wait ten seconds. 5. Rise and walk toward the back (some do the sign of the cross at this point, but I’m not sure what determines who gets to do that).
