"TIL WE MEET AGAIN"

Today was my last day doing hospice visits as tomorrow I will be leaving my job after twenty-four years. I wanted to see three particular patients on this last day. Not because they needed anything from me, but I wanted to let them know how each has touched me with their positive attitudes. Saying goodbye will be the difficult part.

All three count their blessings with a positive spin. That attitude helps everyone around. “Yvonne”, ninety-two, suffers from cardiac disease. She is bedridden and unable to manage any of her needs. Between visits from her large, extended family, she watches her favorite television shows. She does not complain, but will tear up when talking about how blessed she is with such a wonderful family.

“Buddy”, seventy-four, has bile duct cancer. He told me today that he is having more bad days than good. Buddy talked about having no appetite and how much he misses his favorite foods. He will state factually what he has lost, but puts it all “in God’s hands.” His faith is that strong. He, too, has a large, extended, supportive family. He so appreciates any visits by his family, friends or hospice workers. Buddy will light up when someone walks into his home.

“Kevin”, eighty-six, suffers from stomach cancer. He has been in a long, slow decline. He twists everything around and makes jokes about his situation. He doesn’t have fears about dying, although has no belief about afterlife. He is always in a positive mood no matter what.

All three have taught me that attitude is everything. All three have these amazing, supportive families. I told them that their families being around says a lot about their family members, but it also reflects them. I truly believe in Karma. I shared how they each have touched me individually. All three share the same legacy; their unconditional love for mankind.

Next week, I start my new position in another hospice much closer to my home. I know I will continue to be honored doing this work by meeting so many more amazing people who effortlessly share their lives and stories. What a blessing each of them are to all of us.


“TIL WE MEET AGAIN”
　

I wanted to see each of them,
knowing it was my last time.
I wanted to share how each moved me
in their own and special way.

I spoke about their legacy.
How we will all remember them well.
Their positive spirits; their beautiful souls.
Leaving exceptional footprints as they passed our way.

All three unconditionally count their blessings.
Not in possessions or the jewelry they wear,
but in family; in friends; in relationships.
Teaching all of us what truly matters each day.

It was so hard to say goodbye.
A word sounding much too harsh; too final.
Although both knowing it was coming,
still needing to soften the blow.

People come into our lives for a purpose.
If only for a moment, we can be changed.
I hugged each of them and then walked away;
believing that maybe there will be a time
         “Til we meet again.”