As I wrote a couple of weeks ago, my mindfulness card had been titled, “This person could die tonight.” It was particularly apropos since I had two friends who were sick and actually could die.
One of those friends has since died. The last three visits I had with him were meaningful in that I made sure there was nothing left to say. The last night I was with him and his family, I knew the end was near. His family was all gathered keeping watch and there was a lot of activity in the house. Stories were being shared, there were tears and laughter, moments of quiet and visible love in the room. It was a blessing for them to have this time and although he was unconscious, I like to think he heard at least some of the banter and expressions of deep love.
His funeral was lovely. The church was filled, the readings meaningful and the reflections appropriate to his character. He had chosen the music and a cantor and that was just right for his celebration. The level of faith and hope was clearly evident and it was bolstered by the deceased’s unwavering belief that never wobbled even once through out his illness.
I am grateful that this particular mindfulness exercise occurred when it did. It made the time more precious and being mindful of the death occurring any moment allowed me to be grateful for the little time we were able to share in the last weeks of his life.
Next up: The Wind – more to come next time.
Anam Cara 