In the past, it was a common practice for close friends and family members to sit up with the body of a deceased loved one the night before the funeral. This tradition, believed to ward off evil spirits and provide comfort to the departed, was particularly prevalent in rural areas. While the specific reasons for this practice varied, one common explanation was to deter cats from approaching the body. The attraction that cats may have to the deceased remains a subject of speculation and folklore.
My great grandfather, a young man at the time, participated in this tradition along with a friend. As they sat vigil beside the deceased, they thought they perceived movement beneath the sheet-covered body. Initially dismissing it as a trick of their imagination, they continued their watch. However, a few minutes later, the body slowly rose to a sitting position, startling the two men.
While my great grandfather maintained his composure and continued to guard the body, his friend fled the house in terror, never to return. The encounter left a lasting impression on my great grandfather, who carried the memory of that night with him for the rest of his life.
This haunting tale, passed down through generations, offers a glimpse into the eerie customs and beliefs of the past. Whether the encounter was a product of imagination, grief, or a genuine paranormal event, it remains a chilling story that continues to captivate and disturb.
