why i like chesterton (pt 2)

In Wisdom and Innocence: A Life of G.K. Chesterton by Joseph Pearce, we learn of the romance growing between Gilbert and Frances along the road to marriage. We also get a glimpse into the sudden death of Frances' sister, Gertrude, and G.K.'s consoling words written to Frances during that time:

"I do not know what Gertrude's death was - I know that it was beautiful, for I saw it. We do not feel that it is so beautiful now - why? Because we do not see it now. What we see now is her absence: but her Death is not her absence, but her Presence somewhere else. That is what we knew was beautiful, as long as we could see it. Do not be frightened, dearest, by the slow inevitable laws of human nature, we shall climb back into the mountain of vision..." (41-42)

Death as beautiful; Such an interesting word to choose, yet eerily honest. The reality of the flesh and bones we call bodies. There is a distinct longing and vacancy in one's soul when someone close is taken away. Even though he didn't cling to any hope in a faith in God, these words reveal a yearning for explanation and something beyond "human nature".