Showing posts with label goodbye. Show all posts
Showing posts with label goodbye. Show all posts

Friday, March 12, 2010

The silent ending

My father's wife of 23 years died last Thursday of a massive stroke, She was actually out with her girlfriends for lunch and cards and collapsed in the restaurant. She was taken to the hospital and attached to a respirator to give the illusion of life until the family would have a chance to say goodbye. All that could came to St. Lukes and stood around - totally useless to Eleanor but totally supportive of each other.
I felt no sadness for Eleanor. She was leaving the world in the company of people she loved, from an activity she enjoyed.
I'm sad for my Dad. I am sad for Eleanor's daughters, relatives and friends. I fear for some of their spirits and faith life.
A priest came in to bless her. The respirator was disconnected. I sat and watched as the monitors showed her heart gradually slow down - 85...75...65...and to nothing. It was quiet.There was no annoying alarm - no rush of nurses to the room.  Her heart just slowly and silently stopped. I know that Eleanor was called by God to a better place. I know she was on His good side and that she would now live forever in His care. I want to shout "She's OK now!" and I want to call to everyone to repent and prepare to face their Creator.
But that would break the silence.
So I whisper...are you ready?