Comfort

Coming home to die is what brings comfort to those we love who are facing the end of their time in this physical reality. Before my father died on December 21, 1983 all he wanted to do was to come home. Sadly he died alone in a hospital room during the early hours of the morning. I vowed that no one I loved would leave this world alone.

On March 3, 2009 I write:

Glen does not want to go back into the hospital. Brenda and I agree we will take care of him at home. Dr. M comes late in the afternoon...and recommends a drug that is a nerve block...No more talk of hospitalization for Glen. Brenda and I persuade Glen to get into the hospital bed...We take turns sitting up with him...

Glen died eleven days later, surrounded by his family.

Glen’s mother, Barbara, came home from the hospital on October 11. She was happy, but slipped toward death quickly. Today, October 20, 2010 (10-20-2010!) she died surrounded by those who loved her. Her granddaughter, wrote on her Facebook page:

Rest now sweet Nana...I held ur hand while you left this world...I know you will take mine when my time comes. I miss you already...

Barbara’s family will disburse, returning to their own homes to grieve and mourn. I plant 13 purple tulips that I will watch bloom in the spring, and honor her memory. I say these words:

Fly high - let your spirit soar up to your loved ones who have gone before you. You are free. You are at peace.

Comfort for us left behind is not as easy as coming home. Comfort is in finding a way to live.