Death
Song of Life
Today I was talking with a group of people about music. We discussed the instruments we played and the influence that our parents had on our love for music. One of the ladies said that her mother wrote a song. The lyrics describe the stages of life. She said when her mother was dying, she […]
Ironically Dated Letter
As my dad continues to sort through old family memorabilia, he has come across very interesting photos, articles, and writings. Today he found a letter that was written by his uncle in 1969. Ironically, the date on the letter was the same as that of his sudden death. He must have written the letter and […]
Ready for Heaven
Today at my exercise class, one of the ladies talked about her grandmother who lived to 92 years old. One evening when the woman was visiting, her grandmother told her good-bye and that she was going to heaven. The woman and those with her responded as most would, telling her that wasn’t true and they […]
Interesting Mass
It was an interesting day at church this morning. To begin with, the usual “ushers” were not there. The volunteers who were there tried desperately to do the job, but it was clear they were all very uncertain about what they were doing. There was even a lull during the service as we waited for […]
Listened to Her Heart
Tonight my mom and I watched a story on the news about a father who lost his 20 year old daughter in a tragic accident. Her organs were donated and were able to save 4 lives. The father started a bike trek across the country to raise awareness of the importance of organ donation. On […]
Missing Loved Ones
One of the scripture readings at church today was the famous, “Road to Emmaus” story. Jesus’ disciples saw him die and leave them “forever”. They were missing him tremendously – until He showed up. Then everything changed. The deacon who gave the homily compared the feeling that Jesus’ friends had to the way we feel […]
Fighter Plane
The other night I volunteered with the Fostering Hope Foundation at the monthly cooking events. I noticed that the young woman who organizes the event had a new tattoo of a WWII airplane. She shared the story of the unusual work of art. Her grandfather was in the Air Force and flew a fighter plane in WWII. […]
Beauty in Death
This afternoon I went to a caregiver’s support group. One of the people talked about the recent death of their mother. They were happy to be with her during her final moments. Several people then shared about their own experience with losing a loved one. They had very similar sentiments – that they were blessed […]
Keeping the Traditions
Today my mom’s friend came over for their usual weekly visit. My mom had a valentine all ready for her. Her husband passed away a couple of years ago. She told us that her daughter bought her a box of chocolates just like her husband used to. Her daughter was making sure that she was […]
Wonderful Women
I had lunch with a friend today. As we talked about our current state of life, our children, and our grandchildren, it was rather remarkable what a similar path our lives have taken. It was so good to be able to talk with each other who really understood the highs and lows and the emotions […]